How to Plant Strawberries in Tropical Weather

Strawberries can grow in a variety of climates, from northern mountainous regions to semi-tropical regions such as Columbia, India and Florida. Many varieties are available for different weather conditions. Strawberries prefer cooler temperatures, so timing the cultivation of your plants is crucial in sub-tropical areas of the country. According to the University of Florida, temperatures between 50 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit and 14-hour day lengths are required for successful strawberry cultivation.

Things You'll Need

Shovel
Irrigation tubing
Fertilizer
Polyethylene sheeting

Shade cloth
Fungicide
Pesticide

Instructions

- 1
  Till the garden area thoroughly to a depth of 6 inches. Remove weeds, rocks and debris.
- 2
  Raise the garden bed 3 to 4 inches above ground level. Raised beds create better drainage and allow more oxygen to circulate around strawberry plant roots.
- 3
  Place strawberry plants into the ground. Set plants in double rows approximately 12 inches apart. Tamp soil down around plants.
- 4
  Spread a black polyethylene mulch sheet with slits cut in it to accommodate the plants over the bed area. This helps to prevent weed growth and also keeps the strawberries from direct contact with the ground to preserve fruit.
- 5
  Water plants by allowing a slow soaking with a garden hose until the ground is thoroughly moist.
- 6
  Fertilize plants with 10-5-10 fertilizer with micronutrients such as copper, zinc, iron, manganese and boron. Work 1/4 of the fertilizer into the soil evenly across the surface of the bed. Place the rest of the fertilizer in a band 1 inch deep along the center of the bed.

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