How Do I Plant Strawberries in North Texas

By Diane Watkins

Strawberries are best grown in North Texas as an annual plant, according to the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. While the climate of northern Texas varies greatly, most areas experience extreme summer heat. Because of the heat, ever-bearing varieties are not recommended. Instead, plant spring-bearing varieties that will produce early before the weather gets too hot. Consult your local nursery or county extension office about which varieties do best in your area.

Purchase certified disease-free strawberry plants from a reliable source.

Prepare a planting site with well-drained soil, amended with plenty of organic compost. Choose a location with at least 6 hours of sun daily. Avoid locations that have previously grown tomatoes, peppers, eggplant or potatoes. Strawberries also do well in raised beds or containers.

Apply approximately 1 pound of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 square feet of bed before planting. Mix the fertilizer into the soil to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.

Place strawberries in the ground at the same depth they were previously growing. Cover the roots but not the crown. Plant approximately 1 foot apart.

Water regularly, keeping the soil moist. Daily watering may be needed, especially during the hot, dry periods typical of Texas weather. Strawberries need at least 1 inch of water weekly, more in hot or dry weather.

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