Strawberry care guide
Fragaria × ananassa
Also known as: Garden strawberry, Strawberry
Pets and children
We haven't been able to confirm how this plant affects pets or small children. If any is eaten, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
How often to water Strawberry
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 2 days
- From flowering through harvest, water thoroughly once the topsoil dries, as a guide, keeping water off the fruit and watering in the morning in midsummer.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 3 days
- Planting season: keep new plants moist until they root, then as a guide water about a day after the topsoil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 5 days
- Dormant plants dry slowly, so as a guide water on a sunny morning about two to three days after the soil dries.
Light and placement for Strawberry
A sunny, airy spot is about right; too little light means fewer flower buds and less sweetness, and since rain spoils the fruit, a spot under the eaves suits it while fruiting.
Overwintering Strawberry
Overwintering guide: −5°C (23°F) or above
Cold-hardy and generally overwintered outdoors; winter chill is what sets the flower buds, so do not bring it indoors, and press down plants lifted by frost heave and remove dead leaves as they appear.
Fertilizing and repotting Strawberry
Fertilizer
Beyond the base fertilizer at planting, feed when growth resumes in late February or March and then about every two weeks with liquid feed from flowering through harvest, as a guide; heavy nitrogen in autumn discourages flower buds.
When to repot
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Strawberry
- Planting with the crown buried rots the plant.
- Rain and dampness cover the fruit in gray mold.
- Indoors, unpollinated flowers give misshapen fruit.
Tips for growing Strawberry
- Plant shallowly so the crown sits above the soil.
- Fruit forms on the side opposite the runner, so plant them facing the same way for easy picking.
- Indoors or when few insects are about, brush the center of each flower to pollinate.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
