Home-grown strawberries are a highlight of the British summer, offering fragrant fruit far superior to berries picked early for transport. Summer-fruiting varieties provide a generous early flush, while perpetual types extend picking. They grow happily in beds, containers, hanging baskets and even a sunny balcony.

When and how to sow

Plant runners or cold-stored plants from late summer to early autumn, or in spring. Choose sun, fertile free-draining soil and a fresh bed away from recently grown strawberries. Space plants about 35 cm apart, with the crown sitting at soil level: buried crowns may rot and raised ones dry out. Summer-fruiting 'Florence' and perpetual 'Mara des Bois' are worthwhile choices.

Care

Water at the base in dry weather, particularly while flowers and fruit are forming. Tuck clean straw, fleece mats or other suitable mulch beneath developing berries. Remove unwanted runners to concentrate energy on fruit, or peg a few down to make replacement plants. Replace tired plants every three years or so.

Common problems

Grey mould spreads quickly in damp, crowded growth, so pick off spoiled fruit and improve airflow. Slugs damage ripe berries, while vine weevil larvae can weaken container plants. Birds are often the quickest harvesters: support netting above plants without trapping wildlife. Avoid leaving overripe fruit on the bed.

Harvest

Pick fully coloured, fragrant strawberries from June to July for most summer-fruiting varieties, or over a longer season from perpetual plants. Harvest every couple of days in dry weather, keeping the small green calyx and short stem attached. Handle gently, refrigerate unwashed fruit, and use it soon after picking.

Growing Strawberries: frequently asked questions

When should I sow strawberries in the UK?

Plant runners or cold-stored plants from late summer to early autumn, or in spring.

What are common problems when growing strawberries?

Grey mould spreads quickly in damp, crowded growth, so pick off spoiled fruit and improve airflow.

When is strawberries ready to harvest?

Pick fully coloured, fragrant strawberries from June to July for most summer-fruiting varieties, or over a longer season from perpetual plants.

General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments. Reference figures are typical values; your exact timing depends on your region, last-frost date and variety. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.