How To Plant Fall Strawberries
Planting strawberries in the fall might not be the most traditional approach, but it can be a brilliant strategy for home gardeners who want a head start on a juicy harvest come spring. Fall planting allows strawberry plants to establish strong root systems over the cooler months, setting them up for earlier and more productive fruiting. Here’s how to plant fall strawberries for the sweetest success.
Why Fall Planting Works
Strawberries are hardy perennials, and they actually prefer cooler temperatures when establishing their roots. By planting in the fall, you give them several months to develop below the surface, even if there’s little visible growth above ground. Come spring, these well-rooted plants burst into action, often producing larger yields than their spring-planted counterparts.
Step 1: Choose the Right Variety
Not all strawberries are ideal for fall planting. Look for varieties known to perform well when planted late in the season. June-bearing types are usually best, as they produce a single, large crop in late spring or early summer. Some recommended varieties include Chandler, Earliglow, and Allstar.
Step 2: Select a Sunny Site
Strawberries need at least 6–8 hours of full sun per day. Choose a well-drained location with fertile, slightly acidic soil (pH between 5.5 and 6.5). Raised beds or mounded rows are great for improving drainage, especially in wetter climates where soggy roots can spell disaster.
Step 3: Prepare the Soil
Before planting, work organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure into the soil. This enriches the planting area and helps with moisture retention. Remove all weeds, as they compete with strawberry plants for nutrients and space.
Step 4: Planting Your Strawberries
Plant your strawberries 12 to 18 inches apart in rows spaced 2 to 3 feet apart. Dig a hole just deep enough to allow the roots to spread out naturally. Be sure not to bury the crown (the part where the roots meet the stems); it should sit just at soil level.
Water the plants well after planting to help settle the soil around the roots.
Step 5: Mulch and Protect
As temperatures start to drop, apply a 2- to 4-inch layer of straw or pine needles around the plants. This mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from freezing. In colder climates, you may need a thicker layer or additional frost protection like row covers.
Step 6: Minimal Care Over Winter
Once planted and mulched, fall strawberries require very little attention during the winter. Just ensure the soil doesn’t dry out completely—an occasional deep watering during dry spells will help. Avoid fertilizing until early spring to prevent premature top growth.
Step 7: Spring Wake-Up
As spring arrives and the risk of frost passes, gradually remove the mulch to let the plants warm up and start growing. At this point, you can begin fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release formula to support flowering and fruit production.
Final Thoughts
Fall planting isn’t just a clever gardening hack—it’s a proven way to give your strawberry plants a head start on a fruitful season. With the right prep, care, and timing, your garden could be bursting with sweet, homegrown strawberries before your neighbors have even sown their seeds. Don’t wait for spring—fall into strawberry success now!
