Growing Strawberries: Varieties, Planting & Harvest Guide

Strawberries aren't true berries—they're aggregate accessory fruits (seeds outside) in the rose family. Once an aphrodisiac soup for newlyweds, now a backyard favorite.

Choosing Varieties by Region

• South: Douglas, Dover, Toga
• North: Delmarvel, Allstar (disease-resistant, large fruit)
• Small spaces: Day-neutral & everbearing (fruit spring–fall)

Planting Calendar

• South: Sept–Nov
• North: Early fall (crowns arrive at nurseries)
• Light frost tolerated; flowers/fruit damaged by hard freeze.

Soil & Fertilizer

• Well-drained, slightly acidic (pH 5.5–6.5), rich in organic matter.
• 2.5 lbs 6-6-6 per 100 sq ft (follow label).

Pest & Disease Management

• Pests: Thrips, slugs, snails, caterpillars. Use insecticidal soap, beer traps, copper tape.
• Diseases: Fruit rot, leaf spot. Rotate beds; avoid overhead watering.
• Prefer natural/organic controls.

Harvest

Pick when fully red but firm. Daily harvesting beats birds and bugs. First crop of spring—sweetest reward.