How to Grow Strawberries in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

How to Grow Strawberries in February: Tips, Advice, and the Best Varieties

Strawberries are one of the most rewarding fruits to grow, offering sweet, juicy berries that are perfect for desserts, jams, and fresh eating. February is an excellent time to start growing strawberries, particularly if you’re planting dormant bare-root plants or starting seeds indoors. This early start ensures a bountiful harvest in the summer and establishes healthy plants for years to come.

This guide provides detailed advice on growing strawberries in February, including the best varieties, planting methods, and care tips.

Introduction: Why Grow Strawberries in February?

Starting strawberries in February gives the plants ample time to establish strong roots before the growing season begins. Whether you’re planting bare-root strawberries, growing from seeds, or tending to existing plants, February is the perfect time to prepare for a productive harvest.

Strawberries are versatile and can be grown in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets, making them suitable for all types of gardens, including small spaces.

1. Choosing the Best Strawberry Varieties

Strawberries come in three main types, each suited for different growing conditions and harvesting preferences. Here’s an overview of the best options:

1.1 June-Bearing Varieties

‘Cambridge Favourite’: A classic variety with sweet, medium-sized berries, perfect for UK climates.
‘Elsanta’: Known for its large, firm fruit and excellent flavor.

1.2 Everbearing Varieties

‘Albion’: Produces sweet, large berries from spring to autumn.
‘Mara des Bois’: A French variety with small, aromatic berries and a long harvest period.

1.3 Alpine Varieties

‘Alexandria’: A compact variety producing small, flavorful berries ideal for edging and containers.
‘Ruegen’: Known for its continuous harvest of tiny, intensely sweet berries.

2. Planting Strawberries in February

2.1 Bare-Root Strawberries

Bare-root plants are dormant strawberry plants that can be planted directly into the ground or containers in February.

How to Plant:
1. Soak the roots in water for 20–30 minutes before planting.
2. Dig a hole deep enough to spread the roots, ensuring the crown (where the leaves emerge) is level with the soil surface.
3. Space plants 12–18 inches apart in rows, with 24–30 inches between rows.

2.2 Strawberry Seeds

Growing strawberries from seeds is more time-intensive but allows you to explore unique and heirloom varieties.

How to Plant Seeds:
1. Fill seed trays with seed-starting compost.
2. Sow seeds thinly on the surface and press them lightly into the soil (do not cover, as they need light to germinate).
3. Water gently and place the trays in a bright spot with a consistent temperature of 18–22°C.
4. Seeds typically germinate within 2–4 weeks.

3. Growing On and Transplanting

3.1 For Bare-Root Plants

Once planted, water the plants thoroughly and keep the soil moist until new growth appears.

3.2 For Seedlings

When seedlings have two sets of true leaves, transplant them into larger pots or modules.
Harden them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting out in late spring.

3.3 Container Planting

Use pots at least 10 inches deep with good drainage.
Fill with a mix of garden soil and compost, and plant strawberries with the crown above the soil line.

4. Caring for Strawberry Plants

4.1 Watering

Water regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Avoid wetting the leaves and fruit to prevent fungal diseases.

4.2 Feeding

Apply a balanced fertilizer or compost in early spring to promote healthy growth.
Switch to a potassium-rich fertilizer when flowers and fruits begin to form.

4.3 Mulching

Add a layer of straw, wood chips, or black plastic mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect fruit from soil contact.

4.4 Pruning

Remove any old, yellow, or diseased leaves to maintain airflow and prevent diseases.

5. Protecting Strawberries from Pests and Diseases

5.1 Common Pests

Slugs and Snails: Use organic barriers, traps, or slug pellets to protect ripening fruit.
Birds: Cover plants with netting to prevent birds from eating the fruit.
Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce natural predators like ladybirds.

5.2 Diseases

Powdery Mildew: Ensure good airflow and avoid overcrowding plants.
Gray Mold (Botrytis): Harvest ripe fruit promptly and remove affected berries.

6. Harvesting Strawberries

6.1 When to Harvest

Strawberries are ready to harvest when they are fully red, firm, and slightly shiny.
Check plants daily during the fruiting season to pick berries at their peak.

6.2 How to Harvest

Use scissors or pinch the stems to avoid damaging the plant.
Handle the fruit gently to prevent bruising.

6.3 Storing Strawberries

Fresh strawberries can be stored in the fridge for 2–3 days.
For longer storage, freeze whole or sliced strawberries in an airtight container.

7. Benefits of Growing Strawberries

Fresh Flavor: Homegrown strawberries taste far better than store-bought varieties.
Nutritional Value: High in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
Space-Saving: Ideal for small gardens, containers, or hanging baskets.
Perennial Plant: Once established, strawberry plants can produce fruit for 3–4 years.
Family-Friendly: Easy to grow and perfect for kids to harvest.

Conclusion: Start Growing Strawberries for Sweet and Juicy Harvests

Growing strawberries in February is a rewarding way to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit throughout the summer. By choosing the right varieties, planting early, and providing proper care, you’ll set your plants up for a productive harvest. Whether you’re planting in garden beds, containers, or hanging baskets, strawberries are a versatile and delicious addition to any garden.

Happy gardening! 🍓