When Do Strawberries Grow in Australia?

Understanding the growth cycle of strawberries is essential for Australian gardeners. Timing influences planting success, flowering, fruiting, and overall yield. This guide explains when strawberries grow, how long they take to mature, and what you can expect at each stage of the cycle.

In most parts of Australia, strawberries are planted in late winter to early spring, once frosts have passed. Warmer northern regions can plant earlier, while cooler southern climates may need to wait until soil warms above 15°C. Once established, strawberries typically produce fruit for 3–4 years, though peak yields occur in the first two seasons.

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How Long Does It Take to Grow Strawberries?

From planting, strawberries usually take around 12–14 weeks to produce their first harvest. The growth timeline can be broken down into stages:

Establishment (Weeks 1–4): Roots develop and leaves expand.
Flowering (Weeks 5–8): Plants send up flower stalks; bees and pollinators are vital.
Fruit Development (Weeks 9–12): Flowers turn into green berries, ripening to red over 1–2 weeks.
Harvest Window: Once berries ripen, they should be picked every 2–3 days for best quality.

Day-neutral and everbearing strawberry varieties may fruit continuously in warm climates, while short-day types fruit heavily in spring and autumn.

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FAQs About Strawberry Growth in Australia

How long do strawberries take to fruit after flowering? Typically 4–6 weeks from flower to ripe berry, depending on temperature and sunlight.
Do strawberries grow all year round in Australia? In warmer subtropical and coastal areas, yes, with careful care. In cooler regions, they mainly fruit spring–autumn.
How many harvests can I get each year? With good feeding and care, 2–3 flushes of fruit are possible across the growing season.
What fertiliser helps strawberries grow faster? CompleteGrow All Purpose Liquid NPK 20-20-20 provides balanced nutrition for steady growth and heavy fruiting. Apply fortnightly during flowering and fruiting.