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The Three Types of Strawberry Plants: What You Need to Know

If you're thinking about growing strawberries, understanding the different types of plants can help you make the best choice for your garden. Strawberry plants come in three main varieties: June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral. Each type has its own unique characteristics and benefits, so let's dive into what sets them apart.

June-Bearing Strawberry Varieties

June-bearing strawberries are the most popular type among gardeners. They live up to their name by producing a large crop of strawberries all at once during the month of June. This variety is known for yielding the largest berries, and the harvest period is relatively short but intense. If you're looking for a bountiful harvest in a specific timeframe, June-bearing strawberries are an excellent choice. However, keep in mind that after their brief but prolific fruiting period, they will need some downtime to replenish before the next season.

Everbearing Strawberry Varieties

If you prefer a more extended harvest, everbearing strawberries might be the right fit for you. These plants produce fruit twice a year: once in the spring and again in late summer or fall. While they do offer multiple harvests, everbearing varieties generally produce fewer runners (the shoots that create new plants) compared to June-bearing types. This means more of the plant's energy goes into producing strawberries rather than expanding. For gardeners who enjoy fresh strawberries over a longer season, everbearing varieties are a great choice.

Day-Neutral Strawberry Varieties

Day-neutral strawberries are a fantastic option if you want fruit in the first year. Unlike June-bearing varieties, day-neutral plants can produce strawberries throughout the growing season as long as temperatures remain between 35 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. This means you might even enjoy strawberries in October during milder years. However, there's a trade-off: day-neutral strawberries are typically smaller than those produced by June-bearing or everbearing varieties. Despite their smaller size, their consistent fruiting can be quite rewarding.

Choosing the Right Variety for Your Garden

When deciding which type of strawberry plant to grow, consider your priorities and local climate. If you want a large, single harvest, go with June-bearing strawberries. For a more extended harvesting period, everbearing varieties are ideal. And if you're eager for fruit as soon as possible and don’t mind smaller berries, day-neutral strawberries might be perfect for you.

No matter which variety you choose, growing strawberries can be a delightful and rewarding experience. Happy gardening!

Information provided by our friends at Bob Wells Nursery in Mineola, TX