Growing strawberries, raspberries, blueberries or grapes requires basic knowledge, some planning and proper care when planted. The pay off for the time and work involved is a delicious harvest.
Strawberries grow best in a deep, well drained, sandy loam soil, rich in organic matter.
Strawberries produce best when they receive full sunlight and are planted on a gradual slope for good air and water drainage. Avoid planting strawberries in a shaded area. Once the site is selected, have a soil test analysis done to determine soil pH and fertility. Strawberries prefer a soil pH of 6.2 which may require the application of limestone to raise the soil pH. If the organic level of the soil is low, you can plant a cover crop and later in the year plow it into the soil. Another way to increase the organic matter level in the soil is to apply barnyard manure and till into the soil, the fall prior to planting.