Strawberries

Planting

Strawberries make an excellent groundcover, row crop, or hanging basket plant. They perform best in raised beds with lots of organic material. Strawberries should be planted about a foot apart and planted to a depth that the crown is exposed; NEVER bury the crown. Avoid curling roots in the planting hole. Trim off the lower inch of roots to encourage root system developed.

Fertilization

When spring growth starts to push through in spring use a balanced all-purpose fertilizer according to package instructions.

Pruning

Runners can be removed or placed into a bed to root there. Remove crowns that are 3 years or older. Remove dead foliage at the end of the year to prevent diseases.

Pests and Diseases

Strawberries are prone to viral and fungal infections. Viruses are usually transferred via aphids so be sure to keep aphids in check. Fungal problems can generally be avoided with good drainage and proper spacing. In addition removing old dead leaves from the area is another way to prevent fungal diseases.

See a list of Strawberry Varieties.

Download a complete information sheet on strawberries, including strawberry varieties.