Thinking of growing strawberries? One of the first things you’ll want to know is how long it takes for them to grow from seed to a ripe, juicy fruit.
The answer to that question is… it depends.
And that’s not a cop out, it’s that a great deal depends on the strawberry variety you choose to grow.
In this article, we’ll take a look at the different types of strawberries and their growing times, so you can plan your strawberry cultivation.
We’ll also provide some tips on how to optimize your strawberry cultivation for a bountiful harvest.
So, let’s get started!
When to Plant Strawberry Seeds or Transplants
Depending on the variety, you can plant strawberries from seed or through transplants.
The best time to plant strawberry seeds is usually between mid-April and early May. That’s when the soil temperature is around 65°F (18°C) and nighttime temperatures remain above 50°F (10°C).
If you start with transplants, aim for the same timeframe but only after all danger of frost has passed.
Factors Affecting Strawberry Growth Times
Growing strawberries can take two to four months, depending on the type and local climate.
The amount of sun, temperature, moisture levels, and soil type can all affect how a strawberry plant develops.
The plants may also need extra time to mature if they’re exposed to things like extreme heat or drought.
For optimal growing conditions, choose a location that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. And provide one inch (2.5 cm) of water per week.
Strawberry Variety | Growing Time (Days) |
---|---|
June-Bearing | 60 – 70 |
Everbearing | 45 – 60 |
Day-Neutral | 30 – 45 |
Alpine | 40 – 50 |
Muskmelon | 60 – 70 |
Honeoye | 60 – 70 |
Allstar | 60 – 70 |
Chandler | 70 – 80 |
Earliglow | 50 – 60 |
Seascape | 60 – 70 |
When Your Strawberries Should Bloom and Produce Fruits
Strawberries will start producing fruit about a month after blooming.
The exact timing can vary between varieties, with some beginning to produce fruit as soon as six weeks and others taking up to 12 weeks.
Generally, you will start to see green fruits early on, which will then turn red over time.
Once the strawberries reach full size and color, they are ready for harvest!
Best Tips for Faster and More Productive Fruit Production.
To maximize your strawberry crop, you’ll want to ensure proper exposure to sunlight and adequate water.
It’s also important to keep beds well mulched for both insulation and weed control.
Be sure to test soil pH before planting to make sure the environment is suitable for fruit production.
And adding a layer of compost to the soil can boost productivity by providing essential nutrients like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous.
How to Harvest and Store Strawberries For Maximum Taste and Nutritional Benefits
Once you’ve noticed berries ripen to a plump, bright red color and the hulls pull away from the berry easily, it’s time to start harvesting strawberries.
The best way to enjoy the deliciously sweet flavor and nutritional benefits is by eating them fresh, so try to keep your harvest as short as possible from plant to plate.
If you’d like to store your strawberries for later use, you can refrigerate them for up to 7 days or freeze them for up to 8 months.
So, there you have it.
The growing time for strawberries can vary depending on the variety.
June-bearing varieties tend to take the longest, at 60-70 days, while day-neutral varieties are typically ready for harvest in 30-45 days.
It is important to keep in mind that these are approximate growing times, and the actual timing of your strawberry harvest may be affected by factors such as weather, location, and the you care provide.
By understanding the growth timeline for each variety, you can make a more informed decision when choosing which strawberries to grow and plan your cultivation accordingly.
Additionally, by providing the right care and attention to your strawberry plants, you can improve the chances of a successful harvest.
With adequate water and nutrition, proper spacing, and monitoring for pests and diseases, you can help your strawberries grow quickly and healthily.
With the right approach, a little patience and a bit of luck, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, juicy strawberries.