Strawberries are a delicious and rewarding crop to grow at home. If you want to fill your garden with an abundance of strawberries without spending a fortune, planting bare root strawberry plants in late winter is the best way to do it. These dormant plants are much cheaper than potted ones and, with the right care, will establish quickly, producing sweet, juicy berries in just a few months.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plant bare root strawberries and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Why Choose Bare Root Strawberries?
Bare root strawberries are dormant plants that are sold without soil. They may look lifeless at first, but they come to life once planted in the ground. Here’s why they’re a great choice:
Cost-Effective – Much cheaper than potted plants.
Healthier Root Systems – Stronger roots lead to better growth.
More Variety Choices – You can find heirloom and specialty varieties.
Easier to Transport & Store – Less bulky and easier to plant.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Bare Root Strawberries
Step 1: Choose the Right Variety
There are three main types of strawberries:
- June-bearing – Produces one large crop in early summer.
- Everbearing – Produces smaller crops throughout the season.
- Day-neutral – Fruits continuously in warm weather.
For an endless supply of strawberries, consider planting a mix of June-bearing and everbearing varieties.
Step 2: Select the Best Location
Strawberries thrive in full sun, so choose a spot that gets at least 6–8 hours of sunlight per day. The soil should be:
Well-draining – Avoid waterlogged areas.
Slightly acidic – pH between 5.5 and 6.5.
Rich in organic matter – Mix in compost before planting.
If your garden has heavy clay soil, consider planting in raised beds or containers.
Step 3: Prepare the Soil
- Loosen the soil to a depth of about 12 inches to allow the roots to spread.
- Add compost or well-rotted manure to enrich the soil.
- Test the pH level and adjust if necessary using garden lime (to raise pH) or sulfur (to lower pH).
- Create planting rows about 18 inches apart to give the plants room to grow.
Step 4: Soak the Roots Before Planting
Bare root strawberries can dry out quickly. Before planting:
- Remove the plants from their packaging.
- Soak the roots in room temperature water for 30 minutes to 1 hour to rehydrate them.
- Do not soak them for too long—this can cause rot.
Step 5: Plant the Strawberries Correctly
- Dig small holes about 12–18 inches apart in rows.
- Spread the roots gently so they’re not bunched up.
- Position the crown (the central growing point) at soil level—not too deep or too high.
- Cover the roots with soil and firm it down gently.
Tip: If the crown is buried too deep, the plant may rot. If it’s too high, the roots may dry out.
Step 6: Water and Mulch
- Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle.
- Apply mulch (straw, pine needles, or wood chips) around the plants to:
- Retain moisture.
- Prevent weeds.
- Protect roots from cold weather.
Step 7: Care for Your Strawberry Plants
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially in the first few weeks. Avoid overwatering.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced organic fertilizer (like a 10-10-10 mix) after new growth appears.
Weed Control: Keep weeds away to avoid competition for nutrients.
Remove First-Year Flowers: For a stronger root system, pinch off flowers in the first few months.
Step 8: Protect from Pests and Diseases
- Use row covers to protect plants from birds and insects.
- Rotate planting locations each year to prevent soil-borne diseases.
- Watch for signs of disease like yellowing leaves or mold and remove affected plants.
When to Expect Strawberries?
- First Year: You may get a few strawberries, but most growth goes into root development.
- Second Year: A full harvest begins!
- Following Years: With proper care, strawberry plants produce for 3–5 years.
Conclusion
Planting bare root strawberries in late winter is an affordable and effective way to establish a strawberry patch. By following these steps, you can enjoy an endless supply of sweet, homegrown strawberries for years to come!
So why wait? Get your bare root strawberries, plant them now, and look forward to a delicious harvest!
