Always water early in the day so that foliage has a chance to dry before nightfall. This will help prevent leaf diseases. Because optimum fruit, root, and plant development occurs at relatively cool soil temperatures, a mulch is recommend to help keep the soil temperatures down. Additionally, a mulch will help to preserve soil moisture, control weeds and keep fruit clean. Black plastic is not recommended because it elevates the soil temperature.
Strawberries suffer if there is competition, so keep weeds out of the beds.
Hand weeding is best because the roots are shallow. If you use a hoe or other cultivation tool, take care around the roots of the plants. Strawberries require regular feeding to produce a good crop. They should be fertilized at time of planting and early in the spring in subsequent years. Apply a second feeding shortly after harvest.