How to Grow Strawberry

Strawberries are delicious and healthy fruits that many people love to eat. Besides being tasty, they are also easy to grow at home. In this article, we will show you how to plant strawberry in your backyard or in a pot.

1. Choose the Right Variety

The first thing you need to do when planting strawberry is to choose the right variety. There are three main types of strawberries: June-bearing, Everbearing, and Day-neutral. June-bearing strawberries produce fruit once a year in late spring, while Everbearing strawberries produce two crops a year, one in late spring and another in fall. Day-neutral strawberries produce fruit all summer long. Consider how much fruit you want and when you want it before choosing the variety that suits your needs.

2. Prepare the Soil

Strawberries grow best in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. If your soil is heavy, you may want to mix in some sand or vermiculite to improve drainage. You can also add compost or aged manure to increase the organic matter content. Be sure to remove any rocks or debris from the soil before planting.

3. Plant the Strawberries

If planting in the ground, make sure to space the strawberry plants about 12 to 18 inches apart with rows that are 2 to 3 feet apart. Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the root ball and place the plant in the hole. Cover the roots and pack the soil firmly around the stem. When planting in pots, use a potting mix rather than garden soil, and choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide and deep.

4. Water and Fertilize

Strawberries need consistent moisture to thrive. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Watering deeply once a week is usually sufficient unless there is a drought or other extreme weather conditions. Fertilize the strawberries every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.

5. Protect the Strawberries

Strawberries are popular with birds, snails, and other critters, so it is important to protect your plants. Covering them with netting can help keep birds away, while copper tape or slug bait can help deter snails and slugs. Mulching around the plants can help keep the soil moist, control weeds, and protect the roots from temperature extremes.

6. Harvest the Strawberries

Strawberries are usually ready for harvest about 4-6 weeks after flowering. Pick the ripe strawberries every 2-3 days to keep the plants producing. When picking the strawberries, make sure to leave the stem attached to the fruit to prolong shelf life.

In conclusion, growing strawberries is an easy and rewarding hobby that anyone can enjoy. With a little bit of effort and attention, you can enjoy delicious strawberries fresh from your own backyard or balcony.