Strawberries: How to Feed, Grow and Maintain Sweet, Productive Plants

Strawberries are among the most rewarding fruit crops for home gardeners and commercial growers alike—but only when fed correctly. Whether you’re growing strawberries in containers or garden beds, understanding the right fertiliser type, timing, and application can make the difference between average yields and a thriving harvest.

Understanding Strawberry Growth & Soil Requirements

Strawberries are shallow-rooted, perennial plants that produce best in their second year of growth. There are three main types:

June-bearing: One heavy crop in early summer
Ever-bearing: Multiple flushes through spring to autumn
Day-neutral: Produce consistently in suitable climates

Soil requirements:

Well-draining soil: Essential to avoid root and crown rot
pH: 5.5–6.5 is ideal for nutrient uptake
Organic matter: Strawberry plants benefit from aged compost or manure worked into the soil prior to planting

In containers or planters, use a **free-draining mix** blended with perlite or coco coir. Avoid standard garden soil due to compaction and poor drainage.

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What is the Best Fertiliser for Strawberry Plants?

Strawberries require a fertiliser that supports **both vegetative growth and fruit production**, with a special emphasis on potassium and micronutrients. Ideal fertiliser profile:

Moderate nitrogen (N): Supports healthy leaves and runners
Low phosphorus (P): Encourages root growth without overstimulating leaf production
High potassium (K): Critical for flower and fruit development
Micronutrients: Magnesium, iron, calcium, boron and zinc are important for fruit size and flavour

For strawberries grown in Australia’s varied climates, we recommend:

Complete Grow NPK 20-20-20 – Balanced for early-stage growth and leaf development
Advanced NPK 4-18-38 + Cal-Mag – Ideal for flowering and fruiting stages

Feeding Schedule by Growth Stage

Early Spring (Pre-flowering): Apply balanced 20-20-20 every 10–14 days to support leaf and runner growth
Flowering & Fruiting (Mid-late spring through summer): Switch to 4-18-38 to promote bloom, berry size and sweetness
Post-Harvest (Autumn): Apply diluted 20-20-20 to replenish root reserves before winter dormancy

In **containers**, feed more frequently due to faster nutrient depletion. Every 7–10 days with diluted liquid feed is ideal. In **garden beds**, apply every 3–4 weeks with thorough watering.

How to Plant and Maintain Strawberry Plants

Planting Tips

Spacing: 30–40 cm between plants in rows, with 60–70 cm between rows
Planting depth: Crown (the thick base where leaves meet roots) must be just above soil level—too deep causes rot
Mulch: Use straw or sugarcane mulch to prevent fruit rot, conserve moisture, and reduce weeds

Common Fertiliser Mistakes with Strawberries

Overfeeding nitrogen: Results in lush foliage but poor fruit yield
Neglecting potassium: Leads to small, underdeveloped or watery berries
Skipping pre-season feed: Delays flowering and reduces the number of fruiting nodes
Applying fertiliser during flowering: Always water in well and apply to soil, never to leaves or blooms directly

Best Strawberry Fertiliser for Home Gardeners and Growers

Young plants and early growth: NPK 20-20-20 Liquid Fertiliser
Flowering and fruiting phase: NPK 4-18-38 + Cal-Mag Formula

Each product is:

Highly soluble for fast absorption
Formulated for pH stability and nutrient availability
Free from fillers, ideal for edible crops

Explore Our Full Fertiliser Range

Whether you’re growing strawberries, blueberries, or vegetables, Complete Grow’s shop includes targeted solutions to support your garden throughout every season—from seedling to harvest.