How To Plant Fall Strawberries

Planting strawberries in the fall can lead to a strong, healthy crop that produces fruit earlier in the following growing season. Fall planting allows the plants to establish roots before winter, giving them a head start for spring growth. If you’re considering planting strawberries in the fall, follow these steps to ensure success.

1. Choose the Right Variety

Not all strawberry varieties are ideal for fall planting. Some of the best options include:

• June-bearing strawberries (such as ‘Chandler’ or ‘Allstar’) – These produce a large harvest in late spring to early summer.
• Everbearing strawberries (like ‘Albion’ or ‘Seascape’) – These provide multiple harvests throughout the growing season.
• Day-neutral strawberries (such as ‘Tristar’) – These produce fruit continuously as long as temperatures stay moderate.

Select a variety that suits your climate and growing goals.

2. Select the Best Planting Site

Strawberries thrive in full sun (at least 6–8 hours daily) and well-draining soil. Avoid low-lying areas where water pools, as strawberries are prone to root rot in soggy conditions. If your soil is heavy clay or sandy, amend it with compost or aged manure to improve fertility and drainage.

3. Prepare the Soil

Before planting, test your soil’s pH—strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.8). If needed, adjust the pH with lime (to raise it) or sulfur (to lower it). Work in organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve soil structure. Remove weeds, rocks, and debris to prevent competition for nutrients.

4. Choose Healthy Plants

Purchase disease-free strawberry plants from a reputable nursery. Look for plants with:

• Bright green leaves
• Strong, white roots
• No signs of pests or disease

If you’re transplanting runners from existing plants, ensure they’re well-rooted before separating them from the mother plant.

5. Plant Correctly

Proper planting depth is crucial for strawberry success. Follow these steps:

1. Dig holes spaced 12–18 inches apart in rows 3–4 feet apart.
2. Place the plant so the crown (where the roots meet the leaves) sits just above the soil line. Burying the crown too deep can cause rot, while planting too shallow can dry out the roots.
3. Spread the roots outward in the hole and cover them with soil, gently firming around the base.
4. Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.

6. Mulch for Protection

Mulching helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect plants from temperature fluctuations. After planting, apply a 2–3 inch layer of straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves. Avoid using heavy mulch that could smother the plants.

In colder climates, add extra mulch (up to 6 inches) in late fall to insulate the plants from freezing temperatures. Remove excess mulch in early spring once new growth appears.

7. Water and Fertilize Properly

• Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist (but not waterlogged) for the first few weeks. Strawberries need about 1–1.5 inches of water per week. Drip irrigation is ideal to prevent leaf diseases.
• Fertilizing: Avoid heavy fertilization at planting time, as it can promote excessive leaf growth instead of root development. Instead, apply a balanced fertilizer (10-10-10) lightly in early spring when new growth begins.

8. Protect from Pests and Diseases

Common strawberry pests include slugs, aphids, and birds. Diseases like gray mold (Botrytis) and powdery mildew can also affect plants. Prevent problems by:

• Using row covers to deter birds and insects
• Keeping the planting area weed-free
• Removing dead leaves and debris
• Rotating crops every 3–4 years to prevent soil-borne diseases

9. Prune and Maintain Plants

• Remove flowers in the first year (for June-bearing varieties) to encourage stronger root and plant development. This leads to a better harvest the following year.
• Trim runners if you want larger berries, as runners divert energy from fruit production.
• Renovate June-bearing beds after harvest by mowing leaves (without damaging crowns) and thinning plants to improve air circulation.

10. Prepare for Winter

In regions with harsh winters, protect strawberry plants by:

• Adding extra mulch before the first hard freeze
• Using frost blankets or row covers for added insulation
• Avoiding heavy foot traffic on frozen beds to prevent crown damage

Conclusion

Planting strawberries in the fall sets the stage for a bountiful harvest the following year. By selecting the right variety, preparing the soil, planting correctly, and providing proper care, you can enjoy sweet, juicy strawberries with minimal effort. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, fall-planted strawberries are a rewarding addition to any garden.

With these steps, you’ll be well on your way to growing delicious strawberries that thrive season after season. Happy planting!