To grow strawberries from seeds, follow these key steps:
1. Seed Preparation
- Use fresh seeds, ideally less than 2 years old, for better germination rates
- Cold stratify the seeds by placing them in the refrigerator at 34-39°F (1-4°C) for about 30 days before sowing. This chilling period helps break seed dormancy and improves germination
2. Sowing Seeds
- Sow seeds indoors in seed-starting flats or shallow containers filled with fine, moist seed-starting mix or potting soil
- Scatter the tiny seeds on the surface of the soil; do not bury them because strawberry seeds need light to germinate. Lightly cover with a thin layer of vermiculite or sharp sand if desired to retain moisture but still allow light penetration
- Keep the soil moist by misting daily or watering from below to avoid washing away the seeds
- Maintain a temperature of 65-75°F (18-24°C) for optimal germination
- Place the containers under grow lights or near a sunny window with about 12 hours of light daily
3. Germination and Seedling Care
- Germination can take anywhere from 7 days to 6 weeks, so be patient
- Once seedlings appear, remove any plastic covering to prevent mold
- When seedlings develop three sets of true leaves, thin them out or transplant them into individual pots to give them space to grow
4. Transplanting Outdoors
- Harden off seedlings by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions before planting them in the garden after the last frost
- Space strawberry plants about 1 to 2 feet apart in well-prepared soil enriched with compost or manure and possibly a high potassium fertilizer
- Remove flowers during the first growing season to encourage strong root development and better future yields
Additional Tips
- Growing strawberries from seed is slower than using runners or transplants; expect to wait about a year before harvesting fruit
- Choose strawberry varieties suited to your climate and desired harvest time (e.g., June-bearing, everbearing, or alpine)
By following these steps, you can successfully grow strawberries from seeds and enjoy fresh berries in subsequent seasons
