Requirements for Growing Strawberries

Soil Conditions

• Strawberries thrive in well-draining sandy loam soil enriched with organic matter. Avoid heavy or poorly draining soils that remain wet for long periods. The site should slope slightly and be positioned near a water supply. Prepare the planting site six months to two years before planting strawberries. Because strawberries thrive in a pH range of 5.8 to 6.2, add limestone to increase the pH of acidic soils. Remove weeds from the planting site and loosen the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Sunlight

• All strawberry varieties require full sun to produce a maximum crop. Ideally, strawberries should receive at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight every day. If necessary, clip off low-hanging branches of trees that surround the planting site to increase sunlight penetration. A spot with southern exposure is ideal for growing strawberries.

Water

• Strawberries are shallow-rooted plants that cannot tolerate dry soils. Proper watering helps the plants to produce healthy fruit and helps buds develop for next year's fruiting. Provide the strawberries 1 inch of water every week during the growing season, unless supplemented by rainfall. However, increase the frequency of irrigation during prolonged periods of drought. To reduce the chances of fungal diseases, water the plants at soil level instead of wetting the leaves.

Fertilizer

• Spread 20 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 1,000 square feet of area in the spring of the planting year. Alternatively, spread organic sources such as manure or compost that provide at least 2 lbs. of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium per 1,000 square feet. Fertilize growing strawberries two times a year; in spring before the plants set fruit, and in fall, soon after harvest. Depending on personal preference, spread liquid or granular fertilizer over the planting site according to label directions. Avoid overfertilizing the plants.

Mulching

• Spread organic mulch over strawberry plants to suppress weeds, insulate the soil and prevent leaf moisture loss from drying winds. Cover the plants with 1 to 2 inches of straw in early winter, when cold temperatures inhibit their growth. Thin the mulch in spring, when the plants produce new growth, to allow sunlight to reach the leaves. Rake the mulch off the plants as they grow, and spread it over the surrounding soil to keep the fruit off the ground.