Schaefer Greenhouse Strawberry Tips

Here are some great tips and information to keep your strawberry plants in top shape.

LightStrawberries require at least 10 hours of full sun daily.
SoilFertile, well-drained soil preferred.
PlantingWork soil 8-12″ deep with organic matter such as mushroom compost or peat moss.
Mound rows 6-8″ high by 12-18″ wide.
If your soil is clay-heavy, consider a raised bed for your strawberries.
SpacingPlant 1 foot apart in staggered rows.
Allow 2 feet between rows.
Mulch Add thin layer of mulch to cool the soil, conserve water and prevent weeds.
WateringWater well after planting.
Established plants generally require 1″ of water per week.
FeedingFeed with a well balanced 10-10-10 fertilizer each spring.
CareRemove runners from spring through July in the first growing season, so a strong root system is established.
In mid-August , allow each plant to develop 1 or 2 runners.
Remove weeds.
Original plant will produce for 3 years.
Covering with garden netting will prevent birds and critters from tasting the berries.
PickingHarvest when the berries are red. Pick every other day or so… and enjoy!
Remove original and allow secondary plants to grow.
WinterizeMulch with straw or chopped leaves after several hard frosts when ground is frozen.
Uncover in early spring when groud begins to thaw.

strawberries