Strawberry
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.
Growing Guide
Step-by-step instructions for growing Strawberry
Planting Calendar
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Plant Runners
Plant bare-root runners around in well-prepared soil. Set the crowns at soil level, space plants apart, and water in thoroughly straight away.
Water to Establish Roots
Keep the soil evenly moist from 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.
Mulch and Feed
every 365 daysFrom , 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.
Net Plants
Put netting over the plants from before the fruits start to colour. Fix it well clear of the foliage so birds cannot reach the berries.
Harvest Fruit
Pick ripe berries from as soon as they are fully coloured and come away easily. Harvest regularly over , and pick in the morning for the best flavour.
Remove Runners
From , 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.
Companion Plants
Tap a plant to see why it works (or doesn't) with Strawberry.
Good companions
Plants to avoid
Why companion planting matters
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.
Suggested Varieties
Popular varieties of Strawberry to consider
Mara des Bois
A fragrant, late-cropping type with a good dessert flavour.
Cambridge Favourite
A reliable early variety for open ground and containers.
Hapil
A strong-cropping mid-season variety with large, glossy fruit.
Florence
A late-season variety that crops well and usually holds fruit for longer.
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