how to grow strawberries in nc

Growing strawberries in North Carolina, or any region for that matter, requires some understanding of the local climate, soil conditions, and the right techniques for planting and caring for your strawberry plants. Here’s a comprehensive step-by-step guide to help you grow strawberries successfully in North Carolina.

Understanding North Carolina’s Climate for Strawberries

North Carolina has a diverse climate that can range from a humid subtropical climate in the east to a subtropical highland climate in the western mountains. This variety means that the timing and approach to growing strawberries can vary across the state. Generally, the strawberry planting season in North Carolina begins in the fall, as the plants require cooler temperatures to establish roots.

Selecting the Right Strawberry Varieties

Choose strawberry varieties that are well-suited to North Carolina’s climate. Some popular choices include ‘Camarosa’, ‘Chandler’, and ‘Sweet Charlie’. These are June-bearing varieties that produce fruit in the spring. You can also opt for everbearing or day-neutral varieties like ‘Tristar’ or ‘Ozark Beauty’ if you want a longer harvesting season.

Step 1: Preparing the Soil

1. Soil Testing: Before planting, test the soil to determine the pH and nutrient levels. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
2. Amending the Soil: Based on your soil test results, you may need to amend the soil with organic matter, like compost, or adjust the pH using lime or sulfur.
3. Tilling: Till the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches to ensure it is loose and well-aerated. This will encourage proper root growth.

Step 2: Planting Strawberries

1. Choosing a Planting Site: Select a sunny location that receives at least 8 hours of sunlight per day. Ensure good air circulation to reduce disease risk.
2. Planting Time: In North Carolina, planting in the fall (late September to early October) is ideal for June-bearing varieties. Everbearing or day-neutral varieties can also be planted in the spring.
3. Spacing: Set the plants about 18 inches apart in rows that are 4 feet apart. This gives the plants sufficient space to grow and spread.
4. Planting Depth: Plant each strawberry so that the crown is at soil level and the roots are fully buried.
5. Watering: After planting, water the strawberries thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.

Step 3: Caring for Your Strawberry Plants

1. Watering: Strawberries need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Ensure they receive about 1 inch of water per week.
2. Weeding: Keep the area around the strawberries free of weeds which can compete for nutrients and water.
3. Mulching: Use straw or pine needles to mulch around the plants to help retain moisture, keep the fruits clean, and suppress weeds.
4. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer after planting and again in the early spring before the plants start flowering.
5. Protecting from Pests: Keep an eye out for common pests such as slugs, aphids, and birds, and take appropriate measures to protect your plants.

Step 4: Harvesting Strawberries

1. Right Timing: Harvest strawberries when they are fully red and ripe, typically in the morning when they are cool.
2. Handling: Pick the strawberries gently to avoid bruising and remove any damaged or rotten berries to prevent the spread of disease.
3. Storing: Strawberries are perishable; refrigerate them shortly after harvesting if not consumed immediately.

Additional Tips

• Pest & Disease Control: Practice crop rotation and use disease-resistant varieties to minimize issues.
• Renovation: After the first year, mow the foliage down and thin the plants to ensure continued strong production for the following season.
• Winter Care: In cold parts of North Carolina, provide winter protection by mulching over the plants with straw or pine straw after a few hard frosts in the fall.

By following these steps and maintaining attentive care, you should be able to enjoy a bountiful strawberry harvest in North Carolina. Remember that local agricultural extension services can be a valuable resource for specific advice tailored to your exact location within the state.