How to Grow Strawberries for Beginners

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Want to add a touch of sweetness to your backyard garden this year? Learning how to grow strawberries for beginners is the perfect way to get started. Strawberries are a summer favorite, and with a plan that will take you from seed to picking, you can enjoy fresh fruit right outside your back door.

Take your Gardening 101 skills up a notch and get ready to fill your kitchen, pantry, and freezer with some deliciousness.

When my kids were little, one of our favorite traditions was kicking off summer with a trip to the “pick your own” fields around our area. We’d spend the day filling baskets with ripe, juicy berries and come home with red-stained fingers and big smiles. But over the years, those fields have started to disappear, leaving us with fewer options for that fun tradition.

That’s when we decided to grow our own strawberries. It sounded simple enough, but wow, was my first attempt humbling. The plants stayed tiny, the berries were scarce, and the ones that did grow ended up as snacks for the local rabbits… long before we even had a chance to pick them.

Truth be told, I’ve always been a “throw it in the ground and hope for the best” kind of gardener. If it grows, great. If not, oh well. But strawberries? They’re a little different. They need a bit more attention to thrive. Learning this the hard way taught me that a little planning can make the difference between a thriving patch and a total flop.

That’s probably why you’re here—to figure out what steps you need to take before, during, and after planting your strawberries. You want to know how to do it right the first time, from avoiding common newbie mistakes to setting yourself up for a harvest that’ll make your family proud. Lucky for you, I’ve learned a lot since that initial fail, and I’m ready to share everything you need to know to start your own berry patch with confidence (and hopefully fewer wildlife invasions).

Things to Know About Growing Strawberries

Strawberries aren’t just delicious and versatile; they’re also packed with health benefits that make them a great choice for you and your family. You get to enjoy those tasty berries while knowing they’re doing good things for your body.

Here are just a few reasons to add strawberries to your garden (or your plate):

• They help prevent strokes.
• They can ease arthritis symptoms.
• They relieve spring and summer allergy woes.
• They’re loaded with Vitamin C and antioxidants to keep your immune system strong.
• They’re great for eye health.
• They help your skin stay youthful.
• They regulate blood sugar levels.
• Their fiber keeps you feeling full longer and can help reduce cravings.
• They’re a natural mood booster.
• Some studies even show they may help prevent cancer.

Strawberries are perennial plants, which means they’ll come back year after year if cared for properly. To get the best, juiciest fruit, they need plenty of sunlight. We’re talking at least 10 hours of sunlight a day, with at least 6 of those being direct sunlight.

Strawberries are self-fertile, meaning they don’t need another plant to produce fruit. While you can grow them indoors, they’ll thrive (and taste better) when grown outside, where bees can pollinate the flowers.

Strawberries also grow on runners, which are vines that create baby plants (called daughters). While this is a natural way for them to expand, too many runners can crowd your garden and stunt plant growth. For perspective, a single runner from a June Bearing variety can produce up to 120 new plants. That’s a lot of strawberries if you keep the setup managed.

Fun Fact: Did you know that strawberries actually pack more Vitamin C per serving than oranges? Just one cup of strawberries gives you about 100% of your daily Vitamin C needs—just another reason to love this fruit.

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Types of Strawberries

Not all strawberries are alike. There are different types that vary in harvest time and how often they produce. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:

Main Types of Strawberries

June Bearing – Perfect if you want one big crop per year. These strawberries usually ripen in June, though timing can vary based on where you live. They’re ideal for making jams or freezing in bulk.

Everbearing – This variety gives you smaller but steady harvests as soon as there are 12 hours of daylight. They’ll keep producing through the summer, ensuring you’ve got fresh berries on hand all season long.

Day-neutral – If you prefer spreading your harvest throughout the summer, this is the one for you. Day-neutral strawberries fruit in three bursts—in early June, mid-July, and late August.

Favorite Plant Varieties

• Albion (Day Neutral): Disease-resistant and reliable, these plants produce large, firm fruits.
• Tillamook (Early): Delicious and great for snacking or preserves, plus some disease resistance.
• Elsanta (Day Neutral): Produces sweet, large berries, though it’s less resistant to diseases.
• Jewel (Everbearing): A stand-out plant for large, firm fruits and good disease resistance.
• Northeaster (Early): Heavy yields of large, plump berries.
• Quinalt (Everbearing): Produces big, soft fruit and is resistant to a variety of diseases.
• Earliglow (Early): Known for excellent flavor and resistance to common leaf and root diseases.

The best variety for you depends on your location and goals. Do you want all your berries at once for canning? Choose June Bearing. Prefer an ongoing supply? Go with Everbearing or Day-neutral.

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How Much to Plant

Strawberries produce a significant number of blooms and continue to grow, so you won’t need to plant a ton to see results. For a regular supply of fresh berries, plan on planting about two plants per person.

If you’re planning on making strawberry jam or stocking up your freezer with extras, you might want to plant a few more. The great thing about strawberries is how prolific they can be, so even with just a handful of plants, you’ll have more than enough to enjoy.

Seeds or Plants

If you’re growing strawberries, starting with plants is the way to go. They’re easier to manage and grow quickly, so you’ll get fruit much sooner. Starting from seeds is an option, but it requires a bit more time and patience. Strawberry seeds can be tricky to germinate, so it’s best to start them indoors about 8-10 weeks before your last frost date. Use a seed-starting mix and keep them in a warm spot with plenty of light.

Growing strawberries from seeds can be a rewarding project, but it does take more patience. You might not see any fruit until the following year, which is why many gardeners opt to start with plants instead. It’s faster, easier, and gets you to those juicy berries much sooner.

If you do decide to grow from seeds, remember they need a little extra prep. Refrigerate them for 3-4 weeks before planting. This cold stratification step mimics winter conditions and helps the seeds germinate and grow more quickly.

How Long Does It Take Strawberries to Grow?

The time it takes for strawberries to grow depends on how you start. If you’re using a runner, you’ll typically see results in about 2 months. But if you’re starting from seeds, it can take up to 6 months, depending on the growing conditions.

What You Need to Grow Strawberries

To make sure your berry patch thrives, here’s a quick rundown on what you’ll need to consider.

• Location: Pick a spot where strawberries have plenty of room to spread. Plan on 12-15 square feet for 10 plants.
• When to Plant: Early spring is ideal once the soil is workable and frost is gone. Fall planting works too in some areas for a head start.
• Sunlight: Strawberries thrive with 10 hours of light daily, including 6 hours of direct sunlight. Don’t exceed 14 hours of light.
• Soil: Use slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.8) that’s rich, well-draining, and full of organic matter. Raised beds work great for better drainage.

When to Plant Strawberries

The best time to plant strawberries is late March to early April, once the last frost has passed. This gives plants a chance to take root and start growing as the weather warms up. Planting too early can expose young plants to frost damage, so it’s worth waiting for safer conditions.

If you live in a warmer area, you might plant earlier, even in late February. Cooler climates with late frosts may need to wait until mid-April. Always check your local frost dates to plan the perfect timing.

For a head start, consider fall planting if your region allows. This lets plants establish before winter and gear up for spring growth.

How to Grow Strawberries for Beginners

Strawberries need room to grow, so be sure to pick a spot that gives them plenty of space—not just to grow now, but also to spread out year over year.

#1. Temperature

Strawberries love warmer temperatures, ideally between 60°F and 80°F. If you’re lucky enough to live somewhere with mild winters, you might even get to grow them year-round. Just keep in mind that in scorching mid-summer heat, your plants will need additional attention. Use a shade cloth during the hottest parts of the day to prevent delicate flowers from burning.

Another great trick is to spread a layer of straw over the soil. This helps protect the leaves and keeps everything cool. Just make sure the straw dries out before you water again to avoid mold.

#2. Sun

Strawberries love the sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day—but they’ll so better with 10 hours of light daily if temperatures stay comfortable (up to 80°F). Choose the sunniest spot in your garden for planting.

#3. Soil

Healthy soil is needed for a hardy strawberry plant patch. Aim for a slightly acidic soil pH between 5.5 and 6.8. Not sure about your soil’s condition? A quick test before planting will save a lot of hassle later.

Give your soil a boost by mixing in a few inches of aged compost or other rich organic matter. Healthier soil means happier plants—and sweeter, juicier strawberries.

#4. Watering

Strawberries need regular watering to grow, but overdoing it can lead to root rot. Your goal is to provide about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week. The trick is to keep the soil moist without soaking the leaves.

Adding a layer of straw or black plastic over the soil can help retain moisture and keep your berries clean as they grow. Just remember, balance is key. Too much water is just as bad as too little.

#5. Fertilizing

For strong and steady growth, a continuous-release fertilizer is a great option. All-purpose granules can supply your plants with the nutrients they need. Once the blossoms appear, you can expect fruit to ripen in about 30 days, so be sure to keep them fed during this time.

#6. Vine Care

Strawberry vines can grow a bit unruly, so you will want to give them some care. Train the vines by guiding them where you want them to grow, whether it’s along the ground or up a trellis for easy harvesting.

Regular pruning will help keep plants healthy and focused on fruit production. Remove dead, damaged, or diseased leaves and stems to prevent pests and diseases. If you don’t want new plants taking over, trim the runners (those long stems that sprout baby plants) to keep energy directed toward fruiting.

How to Plant Strawberries

There are two ways to plant strawberries: from seeds or by using seedlings and runners from an existing plant. If you know someone with a strawberry patch, ask for some runners. They’ll likely need to thin them out anyway to keep their plants healthy.

To plant, give them some fertilizer and water, and with a little patience, they’ll take root and grow into vibrant strawberry plants. Prefer starting from seeds? That works too. Just remember, you may not see berries until the following year.

Spacing

Strawberries need space to thrive, so make sure to plant them with room to grow. If you’re starting from seeds, follow the spacing recommendations on the seed packet. For runners, aim to leave about 1-2 feet between each plant. This helps prevent overcrowding, which can lead to disease and weaker plants.

Depth

When planting runners, dig holes that are wide and deep enough to comfortably fit the entire root system without bending the roots. But don’t bury them too deep. The crown, which is the central growing bud, should sit right at the surface. If the crown is buried, it can rot, and your plants won’t grow properly. Leaves, flowers, and fruit all need access to sunlight and fresh air to stay healthy.

Diseases and Pests to Watch Out For

Growing strawberries is rewarding, but these plants aren’t without their challenges. Here are some common pests and diseases to keep an eye out for, along with tips on how to handle them:

• Slugs: These slimy pests love strawberries as much as we do. To keep them away, scatter crushed eggshells around your plants. The sharp edges will deter them naturally.
• The Tarnished Plant Bug: This small, winged insect can damage your crop by feeding on developing fruit. If you spot any, pick them off by hand or use insecticidal soap to deal with them effectively.
• Bud Weevils: These little troublemakers pierce new flower buds, stopping the fruit from growing. If you notice infected buds, remove them right away to protect the rest of your plants.
• Root Rot: Overwatering can lead to root rot, which weakens and kills plants. Prevent this by planting in well-draining soil and sticking to a watering schedule of 1-2 inches a week. Avoid watering the leaves to reduce the spread of mold.
• Moldy Strawberries: Nobody wants to lose their harvest to mold. Use straw or black plastic to keep berries off the ground, and clean up dead leaves around the plants. If you notice any dead leaves, remove them quickly to keep the area healthy.

How to Harvest Strawberries

Harvesting strawberries at the right time ensures you get the sweetest fruit. Look for berries that are fully red, shiny, and firm to the touch. Avoid picking them too early, as they won’t ripen after being removed from the plant.

When you’re ready to harvest, use scissors or pinch the stem just above the fruit rather than pulling. This prevents damage to both the berry and the plant. Handle the strawberries gently to avoid bruising, and place them in a shallow container to keep them from piling up and squishing each other.

How to Store Strawberries

Storing strawberries correctly helps them stay fresh and flavorful. First, avoid washing them until you’re ready to eat or use them, as excess moisture can lead to mold. Gently remove any damaged or overly ripe berries, as these can spoil the rest.

Place the strawberries in a shallow container lined with a paper towel to absorb moisture. If possible, keep them in a single layer to prevent bruising. Cover the container loosely with plastic wrap or a lid that allows some airflow. Store the berries in the fridge, ideally in the crisper drawer, and enjoy them within 3-5 days for the best taste.

For longer storage, consider freezing your strawberries. Hull them, spread them on a baking sheet in a single layer, and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to an airtight bag or container for use in smoothies, desserts, or baking anytime.

Can You Grow Strawberries in Containers?

Think strawberries need a ton of space to thrive? They can actually grow beautifully in containers, making them an excellent choice for patios, balconies, or urban areas. Here’s how you can do it:

Hanging Baskets

Hanging baskets are perfect for strawberries. Line them with moss for drainage, then plant two or three plants. The vines will cascade over the sides, creating a stunning display while keeping your berries off the ground and safe from pests.

Grow Bags and Tiered Pots

Grow bags or stackable planters are ideal for small spaces. Place one plant per pocket, and you’ll have plenty of berries within reach. These containers are practical and can turn any sunny corner into a mini strawberry patch.

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Benefits of Container Gardening

Container gardening gives you flexibility. If one spot doesn’t get enough sunlight, just move the pots. The built-in drainage helps prevent root rot and diseases, keeping your plants healthier with less effort.

Growing Tips for Strawberries

• Avoid Problem Plants – Keep strawberries away from tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes to reduce the risk of disease. Pair them with low-maintenance plants like lettuce or onions.
• Use Straw to Fight Weeds – Use straw around the plants to block weeds and keep the fruits clean.
• Deter Pests with Simple Tricks – Use gritty mulch or sand to keep slugs away. For pests like beetles, spray plants with a mix of garlic and neem oil.
• Prepare for Winter – At the end of the season, trim foliage down to one inch and cover plants with a 4-inch mulch layer. Remove it in spring when frost danger has passed.
• Give Them Space – Plant strawberries 12-18 inches apart. Proper spacing improves airflow and sunlight exposure, helping prevent moisture-related diseases.

Strawberries are both healthy and delicious producing so much fruit, your family can enjoy plenty of strawberry dishes over the summer months. Fresh strawberry shortcake, strawberry lemonade, and homemade strawberry jam, just to name a few. You’ll love them in salads and right out of the colander after they’ve been rinsed. It may be time to think about adding fresh strawberries to your garden for the summer.

Starting a strawberry patch can be simple, especially when you have the steps. Start by planting in a sunny spot, use straw around the base to protect the berries, regularly trim any runners, and you’ll have a berry patch that your family will look forward to every summer.

With this guide on how to grow strawberries for beginners, you’ll soon be rewarded with sweet, juicy strawberries. So, get planting, summer is coming!

Other How to Grow Resources: 

• How to Grow Pumpkins for Beginners
• How to Grow Asparagus for Beginners
• How to Grow Chili Peppers for Beginners