How Often Do Strawberries Like to Be Fertilized?

Pre-Planting Fertilizer

• Conduct a soil test prior to planting strawberries; it will indicate the exact nutrient requirements of the soil. Growth is best in loose, fertile soil amended with organic matter and a soil pH ranging from 5.8 to 6.5. Plant in well-drained soil or plant in raised beds in poorly drained ground. In the absence of a soil test, mix in 4 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer in soil per 100 feet of row two to three weeks prior to planting.

First Season Fertilizer

• During the first season of growth, apply 1 ½ lbs. of ammonium nitrate per 100 feet of row or 5 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 feet of row a month after planting. This application is especially recommended if plants are growing slowly and are yellowish-green in color. Apply the same amount of nitrate again in late August to help produce healthy blooms in fall. Plants that are growing in light coastal soil need about 3/4 lbs. of ammonium nitrate or 2 ½ lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 feet of row again in January.

Second Season Fertilizer

• Before the strawberry plants are mowed at renovation during the second season of growth, broadcast 3 to 4 lbs. of a 10-10-10 fertilizer or 1 ½ lbs. of ammonium nitrate per 100 feet of row. Fertilize again in late August and, for plants growing in sandy soils, again in January with a similar amount of fertilizer as during the first season.

Fertilizing Suggestions

• After applying fertilizer, water the planting site well in order to help move the nutrients down to the plant roots. Avoid the excessive use of fertilizer because it promotes vegetative growth at the expense of flowers and fruit. Over-fertilization makes plants prone to frost and cold-related damage. The chances of foliar diseases are also increased in excessively fertilized plants.