When To Plant Strawberries In Tn

If you’re wondering when to plant strawberries in TN, you’ve come to the right place. Getting the timing right is the single most important step for a succesful berry patch in Tennessee’s unique climate.

This guide will walk you through the best planting times for strawberries, broken down by region. We’ll cover everything from variety selection to step-by-step planting instructions. Let’s get your garden ready for a sweet harvest.

In Tennessee, the primary planting window for strawberries is in the early spring. However, the exact best planting times for strawberries can shift by several weeks depending on where you live in the state.

For most areas, aim to get your plants in the ground between March 15th and April 15th. The soil should be workable and no longer frozen. Planting during this period allows the roots to establish before the summer heat arrives.

Timing for East, Middle, and West Tennessee

Tennessee’s varied elevation and climate create three general timing zones:

East Tennessee (Higher Elevations): Plant from late March to mid-April. Frosts can linger here, so be prepared to cover plants if a late cold snap hits.
Middle Tennessee: The ideal window is mid-March to early April. This is the most reliable region for following the general state guideline.
West Tennessee (Warmer Climate): You can often plant a bit earlier, from early March to early April. The soil warms up faster in this region.

The Fall Planting Option

While less common, fall planting in late September to October is possible, especially in West and Middle TN. This gives plants a head start for spring. It requires consistent care through winter, like mulching heavily, but can lead to an earlier crop.

Understanding Strawberry Types

Choosing the right type of strawberry is just as crucial as timing. Your choice affects your harvest schedule and planting method.

June-Bearing: These produce one large, concentrated harvest in late spring. They are the most popular type for Tennessee gardens. Plant them in early spring.
Everbearing: They yield two to three smaller harvests—one in spring, one in summer, and sometimes one in fall. They work well for continous picking.
Day-Neutral: Similar to everbearing, they produce fruit steadily throughout the growing season as long as temperatures stay moderate.

How to Prepare Your Planting Site

Strawberries demand sun and well-drained soil. Follow these steps to prepare the perfect bed.

1. Choose a Sunny Location

Select a spot that gets at least 6-8 hours of full, direct sunlight each day. More sun means sweeter berries and healthier plants.

2. Test and Amend the Soil

Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. A simple soil test from your local extension office can tell you what you need to add. Work in plenty of compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and fertility.

3. Use the Right Planting System

The matted row system is best for June-bearing strawberries in Tennessee. Space plants 18-24 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. Let the runners fill in to create a mat. For everbearing and day-neutral, use the hill system: space plants 12 inches apart in rows, and remove all runners to focus energy on the main plant.

A Step-by-Step Planting Guide

Soak the Roots: If you have bare-root plants, soak the roots in water for about an hour before planting. Potted plants just need a good drink.
Dig the Hole: Make the hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. Create a small mound in the center of the hole.
Position the Plant: Place the plant so the crown (where the roots meet the stems) is exactly at soil level. Planting too deep can rot the crown; too shallow can dry out the roots.
Backfill and Water: Gently backfill the hole and firm the soil around the plant. Water thoroghly immediately after planting to settle the soil.
Apply Mulch: After planting, spread a 2-inch layer of straw or pine needle mulch around the plants. This conserves moisture, suppresses weeds, and keeps berries clean.

Essential Care After Planting

Your work isn’t done once the plants are in the ground. Consistent care ensures a strong harvest.

Watering: Provide 1-1.5 inches of water per week. Drip irrigation or soaker hoses are ideal, as they keep leaves dry and prevent disease.
Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer at planting and again after the first harvest for June-bearers. Feed everbearing and day-neutral types lightly every few weeks during the growing season.
Weeding: Keep the area around your plants meticulously weeded. Strawberries don’t compete well for nutrients and water.
Renovation (for June-Bearing): After harvest, mow or shear the foliage, thin out old plants, and fertilize to prepare the bed for next year. This is a critical step many gardeners forget.

Common Problems and Solutions in Tennessee

Watch out for these regional issues:

Gray Mold (Botrytis): Promoted by humid, wet springs. Prevent it by using mulch, providing good air circulation, and picking fruit promptly.
Slugs and Snails: They love ripe berries. Use organic slug bait or diatomaceous earth around your plants.
Bird Netting: Birds will find your berries as soon as they turn red. Cover your patch with bird netting before the fruit ripens to protect your crop.

FAQ: Planting Strawberries in Tennessee

Can I plant strawberries in May in Tennessee?
It’s generally to late for spring planting. The heat will stress the plants before they establish. You’re better off waiting for fall or next spring.

What are the best strawberry varieties for TN?
Excellent June-bearing choices include ‘Chandler’, ‘Cardinal’, and ‘Earliglow’. For everbearing, try ‘Ozark Beauty’ or ‘Quinault’. Your local nursery will carry varieties suited to your area.

Should I remove the first flowers?
Yes, for June-bearing plants, pinch off blossoms in the first spring to encourage strong root and runner development. For everbearing, you can remove flowers until early July for a fall harvest.

How long do strawberry plants last?
A strawberry bed is most productive for about 3-4 years. After that, yields decline, and you should consider starting a new bed in a different location to prevent disease buildup.

Can I use black plastic mulch?
Yes, black plastic warms the soil and suppresses weeds effectively. It’s a great option, especially for the hill system. Just ensure you have drip irrigation underneath, as plastic prevents rain from reaching the roots.

By following these guidelines for when to plant strawberries in TN, you give your garden the best possible start. With the right timing, site preparation, and ongoing care, you’ll be enjoying homegrown strawberries that are worth the effort. Remember, a little planning in the spring leads to a rewarding harvest for seasons to come.