
Fragaria × ananassa
A hardy perennial fruit that does well in most UK gardens. Plant in a sunny, sheltered spot with free-draining soil or compost, and keep it watered while the roots settle and the fruit swells.
Step-by-step instructions for growing Strawberry
Plant bare-root runners around 14th February - 30th March in well-prepared soil. Set the crowns at soil level, space plants apart, and water in thoroughly straight away.
Keep the soil evenly moist from 8th March through the first growing season, especially in dry spells. Water at the base rather than over the leaves to help avoid mould and fruit rot.
From 2nd March, mulch around the plants with well-rotted compost or manure, leaving the crown clear. Repeat every 365 days to hold moisture in and support fruiting.
Put netting over the plants from 30th April before the fruits start to colour. Fix it well clear of the foliage so birds cannot reach the berries.
Pick ripe berries from 30th April as soon as they are fully coloured and come away easily. Harvest regularly over 30th April - 30th May, and pick in the morning for the best flavour.
From 30th May, lift or cut away unwanted runners after harvest so the plant puts its energy into next year’s crop. Keep a few strong runners if you want to replace older plants.
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Strawberry.
Companion planting can deter pests, improve pollination, and make better use of space. Some plants confuse pests or attract beneficial insects; others improve soil or offer shade to neighbours that need it.
Popular varieties of Strawberry to consider
A fragrant, late-cropping type with a good dessert flavour.
A reliable early variety for open ground and containers.
A strong-cropping mid-season variety with large, glossy fruit.
A late-season variety that crops well and usually holds fruit for longer.
See how Strawberry timing shifts in other towns with different frost dates.