Choosing the Right Location
Sunlight: Select a sunny spot as strawberries thrive in full sun, ideally receiving at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. They can tolerate some shade but will produce fewer fruits.
Soil Preparation: Strawberries prefer well-drained, fertile soil with a slightly acidic pH of 6.0 to 6.5. Incorporate plenty of compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to enhance fertility.
Timing: Plant strawberries in spring or late summer to early autumn, depending on your climate. Avoid planting in cold, wet soil.
Spacing: Space plants 30-45 cm apart in rows 60-90 cm apart to allow for growth and air circulation.
Planting Technique: For bare-root plants, soak the roots in water for an hour before planting. Dig a hole to accommodate the roots, ensuring the crown (where the leaves emerge) is level with the soil surface. Firm the soil around the roots and water thoroughly.
Care and Maintenance
Watering: Regularly water your strawberries, especially during dry spells. Aim to water at the base of the plant to avoid wetting the leaves, which can lead to disease.
Fertilizing: Use a high-potash fertilizer from early spring to promote flowering and fruiting.
Mulching: Apply a layer of straw or mulch around the plants to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the fruit from soil contact.
Pruning and Runners: Remove any runners in the first year to focus the plant's energy on fruit production. In subsequent years, you can propagate new plants from these runners.
Harvesting
Harvest strawberries when they are fully red and ripe. Regularly check for ripe fruit to enjoy the best flavor and prevent overripening.