How to Grow & Harvest Strawberries |
Soil and Fertilizing It’s best to have your soil tested before planting, so you know what nutrients and pH adjustments may be needed to support your crop. For a thorough soil test, consult your local county extension office. Strawberries like deep, well-drained sandy loams. They don’t tolerate extremes in pH well, with the ideal pH being slightly acidic at 5.8-6.2. About 6 weeks after planting, apply two pounds of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet. Sprinkle the fertilizer evenly over the growing area, avoiding direct contact with the foliage. Add two pounds again after renovating in July. Planting Everbearing strawberries can be grown in-ground, and also in containers and raised beds. First Year
Next Few Years
Thinning Remove all blossoms 6-8 weeks after planting to improve yields. Clip off runners to keep the plants from getting too crowded. Watering Strawberries are shallow rooted. Water often, but keep the plants well-drained. Harvesting
When to Plant Plant your bare root Strawberry plants in early spring once the threat of frost has passed. How to Plant Before planting, soak the roots for up to 20 minutes in water. Plant in well drained, rich soil with plenty of organic matter or compost. Gently spread the roots before putting into the soil, and make sure to keep the crown of the plant above the soil level. Add 2-3 inches of mulch around each plant to help keep the soil moist. How to Harvest Fruit should be ready after 4-6 weeks from when the flowering period started. Harvest only deep red, full fleshed fruits. Cut the stem, do not pull the berry by hand. Store any unwashed berries in the fridge for 3-5 days. |