How to Grow Strawberries in the Gulf in Hot Weather

Pick a time to plant when the weather starts to cool in your area of the gulf region. In places with extended periods of hot, humid weather, such as parts of central and south Florida and Louisiana, plant strawberries in September or October for a late winter or early spring crop. Strawberries need to grow in late winter to early spring because they will still have a chance to cool off at night during that time. Nightly cooling will yield fruits with more structure than those grown later in the consistently hot and humid Gulf Coast summer temperatures. Strawberries planted in some coastal areas, such as those found in south Florida, will also benefit from cool ocean breezes.

Choose a variety of strawberries with more resilience to hot, humid environments. Possibilities include Chandler strawberries, which are commonly grown in Texas; Cardinal strawberries, a variety specifically designed for the humid South that are favored by gardeners in Florida, Alabama, Mississippi and Texas; and Sweet Charlie strawberries, which enjoy full sun and are commonly grown in Florida.

Create a growing medium of 1 part compost and 4 parts potting soil. Plant strawberries in strawberry pots, grow bags or raised beds. Grow beds drain moisture sufficiently but, if necessary, plant strawberries in containers so they can be pulled inside to a cool, dark area at night during premature hot spells to cool off. Also plant strawberries in pots or in a sheltered area if planting during a Gulf Coast rainy season, so that strawberries may be brought in during extreme rainfall. Place strawberries where they will receive adequate light, but also be near shade providers such as trees or lattice.

Cover the ground around the strawberry with mulch for the winter if your area of the gulf region sees frost in the winter.

Keep the strawberry soil lightly moistened during the growing season. Do not overwater the ground, as the soft flesh of strawberries is susceptible to rot. Keep surrounding flower gardens healthy, as flowers will attract bees who will also pollinate the strawberries.