Strawberries should be planted in a location with the following conditions for best growth and fruit production:
- Sunlight: Full sun is ideal, providing at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Strawberries can tolerate some shade, but full sun yields the sweetest fruits
- Soil: Well-drained, fertile soil that is slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8 is preferred. Sandy loam rich in organic matter is ideal. Avoid heavy or poorly drained soils; if soil is heavy, use raised beds to improve drainage
- Planting site: Avoid areas prone to late frosts or exposed to strong winds. Also, do not plant strawberries where potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, or eggplants have been grown in the past four years to prevent disease (verticillium wilt)
- Spacing: Space plants about 12 to 18 inches apart depending on the planting method. Rows should be about 2 to 3 feet apart. This spacing allows room for runners and good air circulation
- Other considerations: Raised beds or containers can be used to improve drainage and reduce soil-borne diseases. Mulching with straw or pine needles helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and keep fruits off the soil
In summary, plant strawberries in a sunny, well-drained spot with slightly acidic fertile soil, spacing them properly in rows or raised beds, and avoid planting where related crops have grown recently to prevent disease. Raised beds or containers are good alternatives if soil conditions are poor
