If you’re planning a strawberry patch in The Natural State, knowing exactly when to plant strawberries in Arkansas is the first step to a successful spring harvest. Getting the timing right ensures your plants establish strong roots before winter and are ready to produce a generous crop when warmer weather returns.
This guide gives you the clear, practical advice you need. We’ll cover the best planting dates, variety selection, and step-by-step planting instructions tailored for Arkansas gardens.
When To Plant Strawberries In Arkansas
For an optimal spring harvest, the prime planting window for strawberries in Arkansas is from mid-September through early November. Fall planting is non-negotiable for June-bearing types, which are the most common for home gardens.
Planting in autumn allows the strawberry plants to develop a robust root system and crown before the ground freezes. When spring arrives, these established plants can channel all their energy into flowering and fruiting, leading to a much larger harvest. Planting too late in spring often results in weak plants and few, if any, berries that first year.
Understanding Arkansas Growing Zones
Arkansas spans USDA plant hardiness zones 6b through 8a. This range affects your precise planting date and variety choice.
- Zones 6b & 7a (Northwest & North-Central AR): Aim for early to mid-September. The earlier fall frosts mean plants need more time to settle in.
- Zones 7b & 8a (Central, South, & Eastern AR): You can plant from late September through mid-November. The longer, milder falls give you more flexibility.
A good rule is to get your strawberries in the ground at least 4-6 weeks before your area’s first expected hard frost. This gives the roots enought time to anchor.
Choosing the Right Strawberry Type for Arkansas
Not all strawberries are grown the same. Picking the right type for your goals is crucial.
- June-Bearing (Short-Day): The top choice for a large, concentrated spring harvest. They produce one big flush of berries over 2-3 weeks in late spring. Plant them in the fall for a harvest the following spring. Popular Arkansas varieties include ‘Chandler’, ‘Cardinal’, and ‘Allstar’.
- Everbearing (Day-Neutral): These produce a moderate crop in spring, a few berries in summer, and another crop in fall. They can be planted in fall or early spring but often do better with spring planting in Arkansas for fall fruit. ‘Ozark Beauty’ is a classic, well-suited variety.
- Day-Neutral: Similar to everbearing, they fruit continuously from spring until frost if temperatures stay below 85°F. They work well in raised beds and are often treated as annuals, planted in early spring.
Step-by-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps to give your strawberry plants the best possible start.
1. Site Selection & Soil Preparation
Strawberries demand full sun—at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. They also need excellent drainage to prevent root rot. Raised beds are an excellent option in Arkansas, especially if you have heavy clay soil.
Prepare the soil a few weeks before planting. Work in 3-4 inches of compost or well-rotted manure to a depth of about 12 inches. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. A soil test from your local county extension office is always a smart move.
2. Planting Correctly
Proper planting depth is critical. If planted too deep, the crown rots; if too shallow, the roots dry out.
- Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots out.
- Place the plant so the soil line is exactly at the middle of the crown (where the roots meet the leaves).
- Backfill the hole, firm the soil gently, and water thoroughly.
Spacing depends on your system. For the matted row system (common for June-bearers), space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart. For the hill system (good for everbearers), space plants 12 inches apart in raised beds.
3. Immediate Aftercare
Water your new plants deeply right after planting. Continue to provide 1 inch of water per week if rain is lacking. Applying a layer of straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves mulch right after planting helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and insulate the roots as temperatures drop.
Caring for Your Strawberry Plants Through the Seasons
Fall & Winter Care
Your main fall task is to ensure plants are well-watered until the ground freezes. In late December or January, after several hard freezes, add an extra 2-3 inches of clean straw mulch over the plants. This protects the crowns from freezing and thawing cycles. Pull this mulch back slightly in early spring as new growth begins, leaving it around the plants to keep berries clean.
Spring Care for Maximum Harvest
As growth resumes in March, fertilize with a balanced fertilizer according to package directions. For June-bearing plants, pinch off all flowers in their first spring. This directs energy to plant growth for a much larger harvest next year. It’s hard to do, but it pays off. On everbearing and day-neutral types, you can allow spring flowers to set fruit.
Keep the area weeded and watch for pests like slugs and birds. Netting can be very effective against birds as berries ripen.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting Too Deep: This is the number one cause of plant failure. Always keep the crown above soil.
- Using the Wrong Variety: Choosing a variety not suited to Arkansas heat or your specific zone.
- Skipping Fall Mulch: Without winter protection, plants can heave out of the ground or suffer crown damage.
- Not Renovating June-Bearing Beds: After harvest, you should mow or shear leaves, thin plants, and fertilize to keep beds productive for 3-4 years.
FAQ: Arkansas Strawberry Planting
Can I plant strawberry seeds in Arkansas?
It’s possible but not practical for most gardeners. Seeds take very long to produce plants and fruit. Starting with dormant bare-root plants or potted transplants in fall is the recommended and reliable method.
What is the best month to plant strawberries in Arkansas?
For most of the state, October is the ideal month. It offers the perfect balance of warm soil for root growth and cooling air temperatures.
Can you plant strawberries in the spring in Arkansas?
You can, but you’ll likely sacrifice the first year’s harvest, especially with June-bearing types. Spring-planted strawberries need to focus on establishment, not fruiting. Everbearing and day-neutral are better candidates for spring planting if you missed the fall window.
How do I protect my strawberries from a late spring frost in AR?
Have your straw mulch or row cover fabric ready. When a frost is forecast after plants have begun blooming, loosely drape the row cover over the plants overnight to trap heat near the flowers. Remove it during the day.
Where is the best place to buy strawberry plants in Arkansas?
Look for reputable local nurseries in the late summer or early fall. Many will carry varieties proven in your area. You can also order bare-root plants online from trusted growers, ensuring they arrive in your optimal planting window.
By following this Arkansas-specific advice—prioritizing that crucial fall planting window, choosing the right variety, and providing attentive care—you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a plentiful, sweet spring harvest from your own backyard. There’s nothing quite like the taste of a sun-warmed strawberry you grew yourself.