Strawberries are a sweet and delicious fruit that are easy to grow in a garden or in containers. Here’s how to plant, grow, and harvest strawberries.

Planting

1. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5.
2. Plant strawberries in the spring or fall. If planting in the spring, wait until the last frost has passed.
3. Space the strawberry plants about 12-18 inches apart, in rows that are 2-3 feet apart.
4. Dig a hole that is large enough to accommodate the roots of the plant, and place the plant in the hole. Cover the roots with soil, but be sure not to cover the crown of the plant.
5. Water the plants well after planting.

Growing

1. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid getting water on the leaves, as this can promote disease.
2. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer every 2-3 weeks, starting about 4 weeks after planting.
3. Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and prevent weeds.
4. Pinch off any runners that develop, as this can divert energy from fruit production.

Harvesting

1. Strawberries can be harvested when they are bright red and fully ripe. This is usually about 4-6 weeks after the flowers appear.
2. Pick the strawberries by gently pulling them off the plant. Be careful not to damage the plant or other fruit.
3. Harvest the fruit in the morning, when it is cool, to ensure the best flavor.
4. Remove any overripe or rotting fruit to prevent disease and promote continued fruit production.

Growing strawberries is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. Remember to keep the soil moist, fertilize regularly, and pinch off runners to promote fruit production. With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to growing healthy and delicious strawberries in your garden or containers.

Courtney Simons

Administrator

Dr. Simons is a food science educator. He earned his bachelor’s degree in food science, and Ph.D. in cereal science at North Dakota State University.