In What Environment Do Strawberries Grow?

Climate Needs

• Strawberries grow as perennial plants that require a period of winter dormancy. Full sunlight and warm weather in spring and early summer cause the plants to put on new growth and begin flower bud production. The plants produce berries soon after flowering. Provide strawberries with a well-lit environment so they receive at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. Avoid locations where trees, buildings or tall plants block or filter the light. Light frosts don't harm strawberries, but they typically don't begin growing and flowering until daytime temperatures reach about 50 degrees Fahrenheit.

Soil Environment

• Moist, well-drained soils are best for strawberries, because wet soil can cause the shallow roots to suffocate or drown. Improve poor soil by amending it with compost prior to planting. This creates a rich soil environment for the plants that retains just enough moisture after irrigation for healthy development. Strawberries require a soil pH level from 6.0 to 6.5, which is determined by a soil test. The bed might require a lime amendment to bring it to the proper pH range, which is also indicated by the test.

Irrigation and Fertility

• The soil could remain moist enough in the cool spring, so minimal irrigation is needed, but supplemental watering is a necessity during the hot, dry summer. Strawberries need approximately 1 inch of water weekly to remain healthy. Both natural rainfall and irrigation can supply the inch of water. Refrain from watering before supplying fertilizer. Apply 1.5 lbs. of 33-0-0 fertilizer per 100-foot row in late August. Supply the plants with 4 lbs. of 10-10-10 per 100 feet in late winter before new growth begins. Irrigate immediately after supplying the fertilizer. The water rinses excess fertilizer from the strawberry foliage and helps the fertilizer soak into the root zone of the plants.

Dormancy

• Strawberry plants begin preparing for dormancy and the next growing season in late summer and early fall after their final harvest. The plants require plenty of moisture during this period to put on new growth and begin forming the flower buds for the following summer. The plants need cool winter weather with at least some light frosts to enter dormancy properly, so the plants cannot be overwintered in a warm indoor environment. Heavy frosts can damage the crown of the plant, leading to death. Mulching over the bed in fall with a 4-inch layer of straw protects the plants while still supplying them with the necessary cold environment during dormancy.