Strawberry

perennial-season crop

At a glance

About this plant

Strawberries are a delightful plant for new gardeners who are ready to give a little ongoing care in return for multi-year harvests of sweet fruit.

They are grown as a perennial in cold (zones 3-4), cool (zones 5-6), and warm (zones 7-8) regions, but are often planted as a single-season annual in hot (zones 9-10) regions.

Plant bare-root crowns or nursery transplants in early spring around or shortly after the last spring frost, as soon as the soil is dry enough to work without clumping.

Strawberries need full sun for maximum sweetness and heavy fruit production. Soil must be rich in compost, slightly acidic, and exceptionally well-draining to prevent root diseases. Water regularly to keep the root zone damp, especially while plants are establishing and setting fruit.

Common beginner failures and fixes

• The central plant stem rots and the leaves collapse.: Position the plant crown level with the soil line, never buried beneath dirt.
• Birds or small animals eat fruit just as it turns red.: Cover the strawberry patch with protective bird netting or mesh wire.
• Berries rest on muddy ground, turning soft or moldy.: Tuck a layer of clean straw mulch underneath developing fruits.
• Plants produce very little fruit during their first growing season.: Pinch off first-year blooms on young plants to build stronger root systems for next year.

Beginner checklist

• Select bare-root crowns or sturdy potted plants in spring.
• Plant with the crown flush with the soil surface.
• Apply a clean straw mulch layer beneath the foliage.
• Water deeply and consistently throughout the fruiting period.
• Drape protective netting over the plants as berries begin to color.

Zone groups and planting windows here are general guidance. Confirm your own zone and last frost date locally before planting.