Growing Strawberries: June-Bearing vs. Ever-Bearing (and How to Grow Them Right)

Strawberries are one of the most rewarding fruits to grow—vibrant, delicious, and surprisingly easy once you know their preferences. Whether you’re planting a patch in the garden or growing them in containers, understanding the type of strawberry, soil, and care needs will make all the difference. This guide walks through the key differences between June-bearing and ever-bearing varieties, plus practical growing tips on runners, soil, fertilizer, watering, and planting bare-root strawberries.

June-Bearing Strawberries

June-bearing strawberries produce one large crop per year, typically in late spring or early summer. The berries are large, juicy, and perfect for freezing, preserves, or baking. The harvest window usually lasts about three weeks, after which the plants rest and put energy into sending out runners.

June-bearers are ideal if you want one abundant harvest for storage or recipes. Reliable, disease-resistant favorites include Sparkle Supreme and Honeoye.

Quick facts:

• Produces one large crop per year, usually in June

• Harvest period lasts about 3 weeks

• Larger fruit and higher overall yield

• Sends out many runners (great for propagation)

• Best for gardeners who like to preserve or freeze berries

 

A classic choice is Ozark Beauty, a vigorous, disease-resistant variety that performs well in northern and mountain climates.

Quick facts:

• Up to 3 harvests per year

• Smaller but steady yields

• Fewer runners and less maintenance

• Excellent for containers and small spaces

• Best for gardeners who want berries all season long

 

Runners are long stems that extend from mature plants and form “daughter” plants at their ends. Whether to keep or remove them depends on your goals:

• To propagate: Pin runners down in the soil or small pots until they root, then clip from the mother plant and transplant.

• To boost fruit size: Remove runners regularly so the plant’s energy goes into berry production.

• In containers: Trim runners early—they can quickly overtake limited space.

Keeping a few runners each season ensures new, vigorous plants while maintaining fruit quality.

How Long Until Strawberries Fruit?

Most strawberry plants will produce fruit in their first growing season, but your best harvest will come in the second year once roots and crowns are well-established. If planting bare-root strawberries, pinch off early flowers the first year to encourage stronger plants and larger berries later on. With proper care, a healthy patch will remain productive for 3–5 years before needing to be replanted.

Container Gardening with Strawberries

You don’t need a garden bed to enjoy fresh strawberries. Containers, hanging baskets, and patio planters work beautifully—especially for ever-bearing types that stay compact.

Container tips:

• Choose a pot at least 12–14 inches wide and 8–10 inches deep

• Use a light, well-draining mix with compost and perlite or sand

• Place in full sun (6–8 hours daily)

• Water consistently to keep soil evenly moist

• Trim runners to save space and energy

Container-grown strawberries warm up faster in spring and are easy to protect from pests and frost.

Soil Type and Preparation

Strawberries thrive in slightly acidic soil (pH 5.8–6.5) that’s loose, rich in organic matter, and drains well. Heavy clay soils can cause root rot, while overly sandy soils dry too quickly. The best mix balances drainage with moisture retention.

Soil tips:

• Incorporate compost, peat moss, or aged manure before planting

• Improve clay soil with sand or perlite

• Raised beds are excellent for better drainage

• Avoid replanting strawberries in the same spot year after year to prevent disease buildup

Preparing your soil well before planting sets the stage for years of healthy growth.

Fertilizer Needs

Strawberries benefit from steady but moderate feeding. Too much nitrogen will encourage leafy growth at the expense of fruit.

Fertilizing schedule:

• Before planting: Mix a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10 into the soil

• During growth: Reapply every 4–6 weeks or use a slow-release blend

• After harvest: Light feeding helps replenish nutrients and form buds for next year

• Stop feeding once plants flower heavily to avoid soft, watery berries

Organic compost or berry-specific fertilizers also work well and improve soil health over time.

Watering and Irrigation

Consistent moisture is key for plump, flavorful berries. Aim for about 1–1.5 inches of water per week, adjusting for rainfall and temperature.

Watering tips:

• Water early in the day to allow leaves to dry before nightfall

• Use drip irrigation or a soaker hose to keep foliage dry and reduce disease

• Avoid overwatering—soggy soil can cause root issues

• Mulch with straw, pine needles, or shredded leaves to retain moisture and keep fruit clean

Planting Bare-Root Strawberries

Bare-root plants are an economical and reliable way to start your strawberry patch. When planting:

1. Soak the roots in room-temperature water for 20–30 minutes before planting.

2. Dig holes deep enough for the roots to spread out naturally.

3. Position plants so the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) sits just above the soil line.

4. Space plants 12–18 inches apart with 3–4 feet between rows.

5. Water thoroughly and mulch immediately to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Remove any blossoms the first few weeks after planting to help roots establish before fruiting.

Final Thoughts

Whether you prefer one big harvest from June-bearing types or steady picking from ever-bearing varieties, strawberries are a joy to grow. With proper soil, consistent watering, and a little routine care, your patch—or pot—will reward you with seasons of bright, homegrown flavor.