Choosing the Right Varieties

When it comes to planting strawberries, it's important to choose the right varieties. In this post, I planted five different types of strawberry plants: Seascape, Quinalt, Eversweet, Allstar, and Honeouye. Each of these varieties has its own unique flavor and characteristics.

Seascape strawberries are known for their sweet, juicy flavor and are one of the most popular varieties for home gardeners. Quinalt strawberries are a day-neutral variety, meaning they produce fruit throughout the entire growing season. Eversweet strawberries are known for their high sugar content and are perfect for eating fresh or making preserves. Allstar strawberries are a classic variety with a sweet and tangy flavor. Honeouye strawberries are a Japanese variety that are incredibly sweet and juicy.

By planting a mix of these different varieties, you can enjoy strawberries from your garden all season long. Plus, it adds variety to your harvest!

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your strawberry plants, it's important to prepare the soil properly. Strawberries thrive in well-drained soil with a pH between 5.5 and 7.0. Begin by removing any weeds or grass from the planting area.

Next, add organic matter such as compost or aged manure to improve the soil structure and fertility. This will help provide essential nutrients to your strawberry plants. Additionally, I recommend using a high-quality organic fertilizer, such as Bio-tone Starter Plus or Organic land and sea, to give your plants a nutrient boost.

After amending the soil, use a garden fork or tiller to loosen it and create a fluffy texture. This will allow the strawberry roots to penetrate easily and promote healthy growth.

Planting and Caring for Strawberry Plants

To plant your strawberry plants, dig a hole deep enough to accommodate the roots. Place the plant in the hole, making sure that the crown (where the roots meet the leaves) is level with the soil surface. Gently backfill the hole and pat the soil around the plant to secure it.

After planting, water the strawberries thoroughly to ensure proper hydration. It's important to keep the soil consistently moist, but not overly saturated. Mulching around the plants with straw or pine needles can help retain moisture and prevent weed growth.

Throughout the growing season, be sure to remove any weeds that may compete with the strawberries for nutrients and water. Regularly check for pests, such as aphids or slugs, and take appropriate measures to keep them at bay. Fertilize the plants according to the instructions on the organic fertilizer you choose.

Finally, when your strawberries start to ripen, pluck them from the plants and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Fresh strawberries are a delicious treat straight from the garden.