Planting bare root strawberries in the fall is a fantastic strategy to get a jumpstart on your next growing season. When done right, these bare root beauties will establish strong root systems through the cool months, setting the stage for a healthy, productive spring.
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Why Plant Bare Root Strawberries in the Fall?
Fall is an ideal time to plant bare root strawberries because the cooler temperatures and increased moisture provide perfect conditions for root development. Planting in the fall allows the strawberry plants to establish themselves before the ground freezes, leading to stronger plants and an earlier harvest in the spring. You’ll get bigger, healthier plants with a head start on fruit production compared to spring-planted strawberries.
Best Time to Plant Fall Strawberries
Timing is crucial when planting bare root strawberries in the fall. The goal is to plant them early enough for the roots to establish before the ground freezes, but not so early that they push too much new growth that could be damaged by frost. To achieve this balance, use the estimated first frost date for your area as a guideline.
When to Plant
- 6-8 Weeks Before the First Frost: The ideal time to plant bare root strawberries in the fall is about 6-8 weeks before your area’s first expected frost date. This window allows enough time for the plants to develop strong root systems while minimizing the risk of new foliage growth that could be harmed by frost.
- Check Local Frost Dates: To determine your first frost date, consult local gardening resources or use an online frost date calculator. For example, if your estimated first frost date is November 1, aim to plant your strawberries in early to mid-September.
Why This Timing Matters
- Root Establishment: Planting 6-8 weeks before the frost date gives your strawberries enough time to establish strong roots, which is essential for their survival during the winter and vigorous growth in the spring.
- Avoiding New Leaf Growth: Planting too early in the fall may encourage new leaf growth that could be damaged by an early frost, weakening the plant. By planting closer to the frost date, you help ensure the plant focuses its energy on root development rather than new foliage.
Tips for Determining the Best Planting Time
- Consider Local Microclimates: If you live in a microclimate that’s warmer or colder than surrounding areas, adjust your planting time accordingly.
- Use Weather Forecasts: Keep an eye on long-range weather forecasts. If an early frost is predicted, consider planting a week or two earlier than planned.
- Flexibility is Key: Be prepared to adjust your planting schedule if there are unexpected changes in the weather. If you notice a sudden cold snap, cover newly planted strawberries with a frost cloth or row cover to protect them.
Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Bare Root Strawberries in the Fall
1. Choose the Right Variety:
Select a strawberry variety that is well-suited to your climate. There are three main types:
- June-bearing: Produce one large crop in early summer.
- Ever-bearing: Produce two smaller crops, one in early summer and one in fall.
- Day-neutral: Produce smaller amounts continuously throughout the growing season.
If you’re planting in the fall, June-bearing varieties are often the best choice since they will establish their roots in the fall and provide a robust harvest early in the summer.
2. Prepare the Planting Site:
- Location: Choose a sunny location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid areas that have recently grown other berries or nightshades to prevent disease.
- Soil: Strawberries prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. Enrich the soil with organic compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
- Raised Beds: If your soil tends to be heavy or poorly drained, consider planting strawberries in raised beds to improve drainage and soil quality.
Check out this guide on Growing Strawberries in Containers!
3. Prepare the Bare Root Plants:
- Inspect the Roots: Upon receiving your bare root strawberries, inspect them for any signs of mold, rot, or damage. Trim off any damaged or overly long roots.
- Rehydrate the Roots: Soak the roots in room-temperature water for 20-30 minutes to rehydrate them before planting. This helps them recover from any potential stress during shipping.
4. Plant the Strawberries:
- Dig the Holes: Dig a small hole for each plant, deep enough so the roots are not bent or crowded. A general rule is to dig a hole 6-8 inches wide and about 4-6 inches deep.
- Spacing: Space the plants about 18 inches apart, with rows 2-3 feet apart to allow for adequate air circulation and room for runners to spread.
- Position the Crown: Place the strawberry plant in the hole with the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) level with the soil surface. If the crown is buried too deep, the plant may rot; if it’s too high, the roots can dry out.
- Fill and Firm the Soil: Backfill the hole with soil, gently pressing down to remove air pockets. Water well to settle the soil around the roots.
Check out this comprehensive guide on Planting Bareroot Strawberries
Tips and Tricks for Healthy Strawberry Plants
Mulching
- Apply Mulch: After planting, apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch, such as straw or pine needles, around each plant. This will help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and protect the roots from temperature fluctuations.
- Winter Mulching: In late fall, after the ground has frozen, add a thicker layer (4-6 inches) of mulch to insulate the plants from harsh winter temperatures.
Watering
- Consistent Moisture: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Newly planted bare root strawberries need regular watering until they establish, which usually takes 4-6 weeks.
- Winter Watering: Water the plants lightly during dry winter spells, especially if you notice the soil drying out.
Fertilizing
- Fertilize Moderately: Since you’ve already enriched the soil with compost, hold off on heavy fertilization in the fall. Too much nitrogen can lead to soft growth that is susceptible to frost damage.
- Spring Boost: In early spring, as soon as the new growth starts, apply a balanced fertilizer or a well-rotted compost tea to support robust growth and flowering.
Get all the Strawberry Fertilizing tips you could ever need!
Protecting from Winter Temps
- Floating Row Covers: Use floating row covers or frost blankets over your strawberry patch during severe cold snaps to add an extra layer of protection.
- Windbreaks: If your area is prone to harsh winds, consider installing a temporary windbreak around the strawberry beds to minimize damage.
Overwintering Strategies to Protect Your Strawberry Plants
Mulch Heavily
Once the ground freezes, apply an additional thick layer of straw mulch or pine needles over the entire strawberry bed. This insulates the roots and crowns from severe temperature fluctuations and prevents frost heaving.
Use Row Covers
Covering the strawberry plants with row covers can help protect them from frost and cold winds. Make sure to remove the covers on milder winter days to prevent overheating and allow for air circulation.
Monitor Snow Cover
Snow acts as an excellent natural insulator. If snow cover is light, consider adding more mulch or using row covers. However, if a thick layer of snow is already present, it may provide adequate protection on its own.
Check for Rodents
Mulch can attract rodents, so check your plants periodically and set traps if necessary. Lift the mulch briefly during mild weather to discourage nesting.
Preparing for Spring
As the weather begins to warm in early spring, gradually remove the mulch layer and row covers. Be sure to keep an eye on the weather and reapply protection if late frosts are forecasted. Begin fertilizing once new growth appears, and water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.
Planting bare root strawberries in the fall is an excellent way to establish a healthy, productive strawberry patch that will provide you with delicious fruits come spring. By selecting the right varieties, preparing the soil properly, planting with care, and employing effective overwintering strategies, you’ll set your strawberry plants up for a bumper harvest. With a little preparation and attention to detail, you’ll enjoy the fruits of your labor for many seasons to come!
