Strawberry Planting Calendar: What to Plant and When

Over the years, I’ve planted strawberries in everything from raised beds to hanging pots, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned—it’s that timing makes all the difference. I’ve had seasons where seedlings flourished into lush, fruit-heavy plants, and others where poor timing led to stunted growth and disappointing yields. Whether you’re growing from seeds, crowns, or runners, getting your strawberries into the ground at the right moment is key to setting them up for success. Based on personal trial, error, and plenty of harvests, I’ve developed a strawberry planting calendar lays out exactly when to start your strawberries depending on your method.

Timing is everything when it comes to growing strawberries. Whether you’re starting from seeds, crowns, or runners, planting at the right time ensures strong root development and a bountiful harvest. This planting calendar breaks down exactly when to start your strawberries based on the method you choose.

Table of Contents

Starting from Seed

While growing strawberries from seed is less common, it can be incredibly rewarding. It’s also a cost-effective way to grow more plants over time.

6 to 8 Weeks Before the Last Frost (Spring): Begin seeds indoors. Use a seed-starting mix in trays or small pots. Keep the soil consistently moist and place the trays under grow lights or near a bright window.
Tip: Strawberry seeds can be slow to germinate—chilling them in the freezer for a few weeks before sowing can improve germination rates.

Transplanting Seedlings

Once your strawberry seedlings have developed a few true leaves and the risk of frost has passed:

2 to 4 Weeks Before the Last Frost: Begin hardening off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions.
After Last Frost Date: Transplant seedlings into the garden. Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil enriched with compost.

Planting Crowns and Runners

Most home gardeners start strawberries from crowns or runners for quicker fruiting results.

Crowns

2 Weeks After the Last Frost (Spring): Plant crowns directly into the garden once the soil has warmed slightly. Space them about 12 to 18 inches apart in rows.
Tip: When planting crowns, be sure the roots are buried, but the crown (where the leaves emerge) sits just at the soil surface.

Runners

Any Time During the Growing Season: Separate runners from the mother plant once they’ve developed their own roots. These can be replanted in garden beds or pots.
Tip: For best results, replant runners on cooler days or in the evening to reduce transplant shock.

Fall Planting for Next Season

In milder climates (Zones 7-10), fall planting is ideal for establishing strong root systems ahead of the next growing season.

Late Summer to Early Fall: Plant crowns or runners at least 6 weeks before your first expected frost. Cover with straw mulch as temperatures drop to protect young plants through winter.

By following this strawberry planting calendar, you’ll set your plants up for strong growth and an abundant harvest. Need help choosing the right strawberry variety for your zone? [Check out our variety guide ➝ See link below.