Tips for Growing Strawberries

Here are some easy to use tips for growing strawberries. Strawberries are a favorite summer treat for many and growing your own can provide fresh strawberries and save a lot of money. Strawberries are not as easy to grow as some plants, but they are not difficult either. Choose your strawberry plants from local sellers or local gardeners to assure you are getting plants that will do well in your area and use these tips for some tasty summer fruit.

Tips for Growing Strawberries - Water Carefully

Strawberries, like all plants, need water but root rot can set in if the soil is too wet. Plant strawberries in areas that will drain well. Strawberries can be planted in raised beds which will help the soil to drain. Strawberries should be watered frequently, but in small amounts to keep the soil from becoming saturated. As the fruit develops water is more important than at other times of growth.

Tips for Growing Strawberries - Give Strawberries Sunlight

Strawberries should be planted in areas that will receive a lot of sunlight. Morning to evening sun is best, but if that is not possible make sure the plants get at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. Do not plant strawberries near other plants that will grow tall and shade the strawberries.

Tips for Growing Strawberries - Mulch to Control Weeds

Mulching around strawberry plants is perhaps the best way to reduce weeds. The shallow roots of a strawberry plant may be damaged by pulling weeds. Weeds should be cut off and not pulled to avoid damage to the strawberry plant. Keeping the weeds cut away when the strawberry plants are young and small is very important to allow the strawberry plant to get a good start.

Tips for Growing Strawberries - Manage the Strawberry Bed

Perennial Strawberries will grow together and crowd themselves. Thin out plants that are small or those that are not performing well. Organic compost should be added yearly to provide nutrients. Fertilizer can also be used if needed. As winter approaches, cover the strawberry bed with leaves, straw, or similar materials to protect them from the cold weather.

Tips for Growing Strawberries - Grow Strawberries in Containers

Growing strawberries in containers is a good idea for a number of reasons. Growing strawberries in containers makes it easier to assure that the soil is not too wet, containers can be moved so that the plants get enough sun, and containers are convenient for those without yards or large yards to develop to garden space.