How to Plant Strawberries

Get the crown depth right

Set plants so half the crown is below soil and half above, with the middle of the crown level with the soil surface. Too shallow and the roots dry out; too deep and the growing point can't emerge.

⚠ Crown depth is the make-or-break detail: plant with the middle of the crown level with the soil surface, roots fanned downward.

Spacing (matted row)

• Plants about 18 to 24 inches apart
• Rows about 3 to 4 feet apart
• Trim long roots to about 4 to 6 inches before planting
• June-bearing types fill in as a matted row via runners

Sources

Reviewed 2026-07-18. We cite university Extension, government, and established horticultural sources — and never invent pesticide rates or dangerous treatments.

• University of Minnesota Extension — Growing strawberries in the home garden — Set the middle of the crown level with the soil surface with roots vertical; too shallow or too deep causes plant failure.
• Penn State Extension — Strawberry establishment: planting and other basics — Matted-row June-bearers are spaced about 18-24 inches apart in rows 3-4 feet apart.
• Utah State University Extension — Strawberries in the garden — Trim long roots and set plants at the correct crown depth, with roots fanned out.

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