Strawberry planting is a crucial stage that determines your future harvest. If you choose the right time, select quality seedlings, and consider soil type, you can get tasty and juicy berries as early as the next season. In this article, Baltimore Chronicle’ll look at when it’s best to plant strawberries, how to prepare the plot, what planting methods exist, and how to avoid common mistakes. You’ll also learn what to feed the plants to boost their growth.
The Best Time to Plant Strawberries
The timing of strawberry planting depends on the climate of your region and the variety you choose. Generally, there are two main periods — spring and autumn.
Spring planting
Spring planting usually takes place from late March to early May. In southern regions of Ukraine, strawberries can be planted as early as the end of March, while in northern regions it’s better to wait until mid-April. The main advantage of spring planting is that the bushes take root well before summer and can yield fruit the following year.
Advantages of spring planting:
- Plants get a long period for rooting
- Lower risk of frost damage
- Active root system development
Disadvantages:
- Requires frequent watering
- Risk of late frosts
- Small harvest in the first year
Autumn planting
Autumn planting is done from August to mid-October. This is the best period for laying the foundation for next year’s harvest, as the plants have time to root before winter and begin active growth early in spring.
Advantages of autumn planting:
- High yield the following season
- Less need for watering
- Minimal maintenance in autumn
Disadvantages:
- Risk of frost damage without mulching
- Shorter rooting period
Choosing a Plot and Preparing the Soil
Strawberries are picky about where they grow, so it’s important to choose the right plot and prepare it in advance.
Conditions for Successful Growth
The ideal spot is sunny, without stagnant water, and with light or medium loam. Sandy soils will also work but require more frequent watering. The soil pH should be neutral (5.5–6.5).
Soil preparation steps:
- Clear the area of weeds.
- Dig the soil to a depth of 20–25 cm.
- Add organic fertilizers (humus or compost).
- If needed, add ash or dolomite flour to reduce acidity.
Before planting, make sure to loosen the soil and mark the beds according to the chosen planting method.
Strawberry Planting Methods
Strawberries can be planted in different ways depending on your experience, the number of seedlings, and the size of your plot.
Main Planting Methods
- Single-row planting
Seedlings are planted in a single row 20–30 cm apart, with 60–70 cm between rows. - Carpet planting
Bushes are planted without a strict pattern, allowing them to spread freely. This method is simple but makes harvesting and ventilation difficult. - Double-row planting
Two rows are planted close together (25–30 cm between bushes), with 70–90 cm between each double row. - Planting on agrofabric
A modern method that involves laying down agrofabric with holes for the plants. It helps fight weeds and retains moisture.
How to Plant a Bush Properly
- Dig a hole deep enough so the roots don’t bend.
- Spread the roots and gently cover them with soil.
- The crown (growing point) should remain above ground.
- After planting, water the plants with warm water.
Strawberry Care After Planting
The success of strawberry cultivation largely depends on proper care during the first few weeks after planting.
Main care steps:
- Watering – Water daily or every other day for the first two weeks. After that – once or twice a week.
- Loosening – Improves air access to the roots.
- Mulching – Retains moisture and prevents weeds.
- Fertilizing – 2–3 weeks after planting, apply mineral or organic fertilizers.
Fertilizers for Strawberries
- Nitrogen fertilizers – For green mass growth (ammonium nitrate, urea).
- Phosphorus fertilizers – For root development (superphosphate).
- Potassium fertilizers – To increase yield (potassium sulfate).
Common Mistakes When Planting Strawberries
To avoid poor harvests or plant death, it’s important not to make common mistakes.
Frequent mistakes:
- Planting too deep or too shallow
- Choosing a shaded location
- Ignoring soil preparation
- Insufficient watering after planting
- Planting sick or dried seedlings
Tip: It’s better to buy certified seedlings from a trusted nursery.
Comparison Table: Spring vs. Autumn Planting
| Parameter | Spring Planting | Autumn Planting |
|---|---|---|
| Timing | March – May | August – October |
| Rooting success | Medium | High |
| Time investment | More | Less |
| Next year’s yield | Low/medium | High |
| Frost resistance | High | Low without mulching |
When to Expect the First Harvest
If you plant strawberries in spring, expect a full harvest the following season. Autumn planting allows you to get berries as early as spring, but peak yields usually come in the second year.
For consistent productivity:
- Renew plantings every 3–4 years
- Regularly remove old leaves and runners
- Avoid overcrowding rows
Earlier we wrote about when to plant garlic in spring and fall.