It’s spring in Michigan, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you can head right outside to start planting tender plants.
While many flowers, vegetables and others need to wait until after the last frost to be safe, strawberries are somewhat cold tolerant and can go into the ground sooner.
“Strawberries are cold hardy perennials, but that does not mean that the cold will not hurt them,” Mike’s Backyard Nursery explains. “Seventy percent of a strawberry plant’s roots are in the top 3 inches of soil. Soil (even cold soil) will protect the shallow roots from freezing temperatures, but frost can damage tender, new leaves and stems.”
The state offers a prime landscape for growing strawberries, experts say, with the fruits rich in nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, manganese, potassium and antioxidants.
“Garden strawberries are typically much sweeter and juicier than those found in grocery stores. They are also perennials, so they’ll come back year after year,” The Old Farmer’s Almanac’s website says. “Plus, they grow easily wherever there is outdoor space and in almost any climate or soil, from garden beds to pots to hanging baskets.”
Here’s what to know.
What strawberry varieties are found in Michigan?
Michigan offers several strawberry varieties that grow well, according to Michigan State University Extension.
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When should you plant strawberries in Michigan?
Strawberries should be planted in early spring, typically March or April, Deneweth’s Garden Center recommends.
Strawberries can be planted up to six weeks before the last expected frost as long as:
If you plant is putting out new growth, then you must wait until after the threat of frost is over before planting outdoors, according to Mike’s Backyard Nursery.
If you are able to plant your strawberries in the fall, they will have time to establish themselves before the mild winter hits, Mike’s said. By springtime, the roots will be large enough and healthy enough to support a fruitful growing season in the spring. There is no need to pinch off the flowers.
Bare root strawberries are usually sold in bunches. It’s best to get them in the ground right away. If you can’t get them planted right away, they can be stored in your refrigerator to keep them from breaking dormancy. Cover the roots with a wet paper towel to keep them from drying out until you are ready to plant, Mike’s said.
Planting tips for your strawberries
Here is some guidance from Deneweth’s, The Old Farmer’s Almanac, Bright Lane Gardens and Wenke Greenhouses on growing strawberries:
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When can you harvest strawberries?
Strawberries, across different varieties of the plant, will be ready to harvest in the summer, some continuing into the fall. Expect strawberries to be ready in June or July in favorable conditions, the MSU Extension said.
When is the last frost in Michigan?
The Old Farmer’s Almanac provides predicted “last frost” dates for cities across Michigan, including:
Contact Jenna Prestininzi: jprestininzi@freepress.com.
This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: When can you plant strawberries? What to know in Michigan
Reporting by Jenna Prestininzi, Detroit Free Press / Detroit Free Press
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