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Plant Profiles / Strawberry
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Strawberry
Fragaria × ananassa · Garden strawberry
Sweet berries from compact plants that thrive in pots, troughs and hanging baskets.
Full sunLight
Keep moistWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun
ShadeFull sun
6–8 hours of sun.
Water
Keep moist
DryWet
Water regularly, especially when fruiting.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Good airflow prevents mould.
Temperature
-10–30°C (14–86°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy.
Growth
Moderate, spreading
SlowFast
Grows 15–30 cm with runners.
Soil
Rich, free-draining
LeanRich
Potting mix with compost.
Fertiliser
Fortnightly when fruiting
RarelyOften
High-potassium fertiliser.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
Garden strawberries are hybrids from North and South American species. Everbearing types fruit through summer. Replace plants every 3 years for best crops.
Best spots
Sunny balconies, troughs, hanging baskets and strawberry pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Fragaria × ananassa |
| Family | Rosaceae |
| Origin | Hybrid (Americas) |
| Plant type | Perennial |
| Mature size | 15–30 cm |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | White |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Runners |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Harvest
Remove runners
PlantFloweringHarvestRemove runners
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Grey mouldy fruit | Botrytis; improve airflow. |
| Birds eating fruit | Net plants. |
| Small fruit | Hungry or dry. |
| Holes in fruit | Slugs; lift fruit off soil. |
| Few fruit | Too many runners. |
Common questions
Should I remove runners?
Yes, unless you want new plants.
How long do plants last?
About 3 years.
Can they hang?
Yes.
Pet safe?
Yes.
