How to Start Growing Strawberries in February

Introduction

Strawberries are a delicious and rewarding crop to grow in your garden or allotment. Starting them in February ensures they have plenty of time to establish, flower, and produce a bountiful harvest come summer. Whether you’re planting them in the ground, raised beds, or containers, strawberries are versatile and relatively easy to grow with the right care and attention.

This guide will walk you through the steps to start growing strawberries in February, from choosing the right varieties to planting, caring for, and harvesting your crop.

Why Start Growing Strawberries in February?

• Early Establishment: Planting in February gives strawberries time to establish strong roots before the growing season.
• Extended Harvest: Early planting can lead to an earlier and longer harvest period.
• Availability of Bare-Root Plants: February is the ideal time to plant bare-root strawberry plants.
• Improved Growth: Cooler weather reduces transplant shock and encourages root development.

Benefits of Growing Strawberries

1. Delicious Fruits: Enjoy sweet, juicy strawberries straight from your garden.
2. Versatile Growing Options: Grow them in the ground, containers, hanging baskets, or raised beds.
3. Cost-Effective: Save money by growing your own strawberries instead of buying them.
4. Family-Friendly: A fun and easy crop for children to help grow.
5. Continuous Production: With the right varieties, you can harvest strawberries from late spring to early autumn.

Choosing the Right Strawberry Varieties

1. June-Bearing Strawberries

• Harvest Period: A single large crop in late spring to early summer.
• Best Varieties: Cambridge Favourite, Pegasus, Honeoye.
• Ideal For: Large harvests for preserving or eating fresh.

2. Everbearing Strawberries

• Harvest Period: Multiple smaller harvests throughout the growing season.
• Best Varieties: Albion, Seascape, Mara des Bois.
• Ideal For: Continuous fresh strawberries.

3. Alpine Strawberries

• Harvest Period: Small, flavorful berries over a long season.
• Best Varieties: Mignonette, Alexandria.
• Ideal For: Decorative edging and gourmet recipes.

Preparing to Plant Strawberries

1. Choose the Right Location

• Sunlight: Strawberries need at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
• Soil: Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5–7.0 is ideal.

2. Prepare the Soil

• Remove weeds and debris from the planting area.
• Loosen the soil to a depth of 12–15 inches.
• Incorporate compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility.

3. Select Healthy Plants

• Choose disease-free, bare-root plants or potted seedlings.
• Look for plump, firm roots and healthy crowns without mold or rot.

How to Plant Strawberries in February

Method 1: Planting Bare-Root Strawberries

1. Soak Roots: Soak the roots in water for 30 minutes before planting.
2. Dig Holes: Create holes 18 inches apart in rows spaced 24–30 inches apart.
3. Position Plants: Place the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) at soil level. Avoid burying or exposing the crown.
4. Backfill Soil: Cover the roots with soil, gently firming it down.
5. Water: Water thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots.

Method 2: Planting Strawberries in Containers

1. Choose a Container: Use a pot or hanging basket with good drainage.
2. Add Soil: Fill the container with quality potting mix enriched with compost.
3. Space Plants: Plant 1–3 strawberries per container, depending on size.
4. Position: Place the container in a sunny location.

Caring for Strawberries After Planting

1. Watering

• Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
• Water at the base of the plants to avoid wetting the leaves.

2. Mulching

• Apply a layer of straw, wood chips, or black plastic mulch around the plants.
• Benefits: Suppresses weeds, retains moisture, and keeps fruits clean.

3. Fertilizing

• Use a balanced fertilizer after planting to encourage root development.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, which can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit.

4. Pest and Disease Management

• Check for pests like slugs, aphids, and birds.
• Use netting to protect plants from birds.
• Remove and dispose of diseased or damaged leaves.

Harvesting and Enjoying Strawberries

• When to Harvest: Pick strawberries when they are fully red and ripe, usually 4–6 weeks after flowering.
• How to Harvest: Gently twist the fruit off the plant with the stem attached.
• Storage: Strawberries are best eaten fresh but can be frozen or used in jams and desserts.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Planting Too Deep or Too Shallow: Ensure the crown is at soil level to prevent rot or dehydration.
2. Overcrowding Plants: Space plants adequately to allow airflow and reduce the risk of disease.
3. Using Poor Soil: Strawberries need fertile, well-draining soil for healthy growth.
4. Skipping Mulch: Mulch is essential for keeping fruits clean and preventing weeds.
5. Ignoring Pest Control: Check plants regularly for pests and take action promptly.

Top 10 Questions About Growing Strawberries

1. Can I start growing strawberries in February?
Yes, February is an excellent time to plant bare-root strawberries or start seedlings indoors.

2. Should I plant bare-root strawberries or potted plants?
Bare-root strawberries are ideal for February planting, as they’re cost-effective and establish quickly.

3. How far apart should I space strawberry plants?
Space plants 18 inches apart in rows 24–30 inches apart.

4. Do strawberries need full sun?
Yes, strawberries thrive in full sun and require at least 6–8 hours of sunlight daily.

5. What soil is best for strawberries?
Well-draining, fertile soil with a pH of 5.5–7.0 is ideal for strawberries.

6. Can I grow strawberries in containers?
Yes, strawberries grow well in containers, provided they have good drainage and receive enough sunlight.

7. How do I protect strawberries from birds?
Use netting or bird covers to prevent birds from eating the fruit.

8. Should I remove the first flowers from strawberry plants?
Yes, pinch off the first flowers to encourage root and foliage growth in new plants.

9. How long do strawberry plants produce fruit?
Strawberry plants typically produce fruit for 2–3 years before needing replacement.

10. Can I grow strawberries indoors?
Yes, with sufficient light, strawberries can be grown indoors in pots or hanging baskets.

Conclusion

Growing strawberries in February is an enjoyable and productive way to kick-start your gardening season. By planting early, you’ll give your plants the best chance to establish strong roots and produce a bountiful harvest. Whether you’re planting in the ground or in containers, proper care and attention will reward you with sweet, juicy strawberries to enjoy throughout the summer.

Start planting your strawberries today and look forward to a fruitful harvest this year!