Knowing when to plant strawberries outside is the single most important step for a great harvest. Get the timing right, and you give your plants the best possible start for strong roots and lots of sweet berries. This guide will walk you through the best time for planting in your area and exactly how to do it.
Planting strawberries at the correct time is crucial because it allows them to establish their root systems before extreme weather hits. Whether you choose spring or fall planting depends largely on your climate and the type of strawberry you’re growing.
When to Plant Strawberries Outside
This is the golden rule: plant strawberries as soon as the ground can be worked in early spring. For most regions, this is several weeks before your last expected frost date. In warmer climates, fall planting is often superior.
Understanding Your Planting Window
The “best time” isn’t a single date. It’s a window of opportunity based on two key factors: your USDA Hardiness Zone and whether you’re planting dormant bare-root plants or actively growing potted plants.
Here’s a simple breakdown by zone type:
- Cold Climates (Zones 3-6): Spring planting is standard. Aim for early to mid-spring, as soon as the soil is no longer soggy.
- Mild Climates (Zones 7-8): You have a choice. Both early spring and early fall (September to October) work very well here.
- Warm Climates (Zones 9-10): Fall and winter planting is best. This gives plants a long, cool season to grow before the intense summer heat.
Spring vs. Fall Planting
Each season has it’s advantages. Spring planting gives you a harvest (though sometimes a small one) in the first summer. Fall planting focuses all the plant’s energy on root development, leading to a much more robust harvest the following year.
For fall planting, the goal is to get plants in the ground about 6-8 weeks before your first hard frost. This gives them enough time to settle in.
Types of Strawberries and Timing
The variety you choose also influences your schedule.
- June-bearing: Plant these in early spring. They will produce a single, large harvest in late spring to early summer.
- Everbearing & Day-neutral: These can be planted in spring or fall. They produce berries in flushes from spring until fall, and are a bit more forgiving on timing.
How to Plant Strawberries Step-by-Step
Once you’ve nailed the timing, proper planting technique ensures success. Follow these steps.
1. Choose and Prepare the Site
Strawberries need full sun—at least 6-8 hours of direct light daily. The soil should be well-draining and slightly acidic, with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. Amend heavy clay soil with compost to improve drainage.
2. Prepare Your Plants
If using bare-root plants, soak the roots in water for about an hour before planting. For potted plants, water them thoroughly a few hours before transplanting.
3. Planting Depth is Critical
This is the most common mistake. The crown of the plant—where the leaves meet the roots—must be at soil level. If it’s buried, it will rot. If it’s too high, the roots will dry out. Dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots out, and mound the soil in the center.
4. Spacing and Arrangement
Space plants about 12-18 inches apart in rows that are 3-4 feet apart. This allows for good air circulation, which prevents disease, and gives runners room to spread. A matted row system is common for June-bearers, while hill systems work better for everbearers.
5. Water and Mulch Immediately
Water each plant deeply right after planting. Then, apply a 2-3 inch layer of straw or pine needle mulch around them. This keeps the soil moist, suppresses weeds, and keeps the berries clean and off the damp soil.
Care After Planting
Your work isn’t done once they’re in the ground. Consistent care in the first few weeks is vital.
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves.
- Fertilizing: Wait about 4 weeks after planting to apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers early on, as they promote leaf growth over fruit.
- Blooms in Year One: For spring-planted June-bearers, pinch off the first flowers. This directs energy to root and plant growth, ensuring a much better harvest next year. You can let everbearers and day-neutrals produce their first fall crop.
Protecting Your New Plants
Be prepared for late spring frosts after you’ve planted. Have a row cover, frost cloth, or even an old bedsheet ready to drape over the plants if temperatures are forecast to drop below freezing. Uncover them when the sun comes out.
Also, watch for pests like slugs and birds. The mulch helps with slugs, and netting is the most effective way to protect ripening berries from birds.
Common Planting Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced gardeners can make a few errors. Here’s what to watch out for:
- Planting too deep or too shallow.
- Choosing a shady or poorly drained location.
- Not mulching, leading to weed competition and dirty fruit.
- Letting new plants dry out during establishment.
- Forgetting to account for your local climate and just following a generic calendar date.
FAQ: Your Strawberry Planting Questions Answered
Can I plant strawberries in the summer?
It’s not ideal. Summer heat stresses new plants, requiring constant watering. The roots struggle to establish. If you must, use potted plants and provide shade and extra care, but spring or fall is much better.
What month is best for planting strawberries?
For most, March to April is best for spring planting. For fall planting, aim for September to early October. Always adjust for your specific zone’s frost dates.
Can I plant store-bought strawberry plants?
Yes, potted plants from garden centers are great. Plant them as soon as you can after purchase. Avoid trying to plant fruit from the grocery store; these are not grown for your climate and may carry disease.
How late is too late to plant strawberries?
If planting in fall, too late is less than 4 weeks before your ground freezes solid. In spring, planting in late spring or early summer gives plants too little time to establish before heat arrives.
Do strawberries come back every year?
Yes, they are perennials. However, individual plants are most productive for 3-4 years. You’ll need to propagate new plants from runners to maintain your patch’s vigor.
Getting your strawberries in the ground at the right time sets the stage for everything that follows. By matching the planting season to your local climate and following proper planting steps, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying a homegrown harvest. Remember, a little patience with timing pays off with baskets full of sweet, sun-ripened berries for seasons to come.