The addition of 2-3 inches of garden compost will improve most soils. Then trim roots back to 6 inches and remove any dead leaves. Pinch off any flowers to force all the plant's nutrients into producing strong roots and stems. Spread the roots in the planting hole and cover with soil. Water immediately after planting.
Plant spacing in the bed depends on the strawberry variety.
Runners that form in early summer will produce daughter plants that will establish themselves between the mother plants. Everbearers and day-neutral types produce fewer runners and can be spaced closer together. Depending on the strawberry variety they pick, gardeners can reap sweet success throughout the year.