Nothing says summer quite like fresh strawberries from a local farmers market or your own backyard! If you’re a Nebraska gardener ready to experience the delight of homegrown strawberries, you’re in the right place. Let’s explore the ins and outs of growing strawberries in Nebraska, from selecting the right varieties to providing optimal growing conditions.
Choosing the right varieties
When it comes to selecting strawberry varieties for your Nebraska garden, it's essential to choose ones that are well-suited to the region's climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties that thrive in Nebraska are listed below.
Allstar
Known for its excellent flavor and disease resistance, Allstar is a versatile variety that performs well in Nebraska's climate.
Ozark Beauty
This everbearing variety produces delicious strawberries throughout the growing season, making it a favorite among home gardeners.
Earliglow
As the name suggests, Earliglow is prized for its early ripening and exceptional flavor, making it an excellent choice for gardeners eager to enjoy an early harvest.
Fort Laramie
This cold-hardy variety is well-suited to Nebraska's fluctuating spring temperatures and is known for its large, sweet berries.
Preparing the soil
Strawberries thrive in well-drained, slightly acidic soil with plenty of organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve fertility and structure. It's also a good idea to perform a soil test to determine the pH level and make any necessary adjustments.
Planting and care
Strawberries can be planted in either the spring or fall, depending on the variety and your climate zone. When planting strawberries, space them about 12-18 inches apart in rows, with rows spaced 2-3 feet apart. Be sure to plant them at the same depth they were growing in their nursery containers, with the crown (the point where the roots meet the stems) level with the soil surface.
Once planted, strawberries require regular watering, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Mulching around the plants with straw or pine needles can help retain moisture and suppress weeds. You can also consider planting them with companion plants!
Pest and disease management
Strawberries are susceptible to certain pests and diseases, including slugs, birds and fungal diseases like gray mold and powdery mildew. Consider using row covers to keep birds and pests at bay and practice good sanitation by removing and disposing of any infected plant material promptly.
Harvesting and enjoying
With proper care, your strawberry plants will reward you. Harvest strawberries when they are fully ripe, picking them with the stems attached to preserve their freshness and flavor. Enjoy them fresh off the vine or use them to create mouthwatering treats like strawberry shortcake, jam or homemade ice cream.
Begin growing strawberries in Nebraska
Growing strawberries in Nebraska is a rewarding and enjoyable endeavor that allows you to savor the sweet taste of summer right in your own backyard. So roll up your sleeves, dig in the dirt and get ready to enjoy the sweet success of growing strawberries in the Cornhusker State! Contact us today if you have a strawberry farm with tons of produce you’re wanting to share; we’d love to have you vend our farmers market, beginning June 1!
