Home » Blog » How to Plant Strawberries in Western New York (and Actually Get a Sweet Harvest) How to Plant Strawberries in Western New York (and Actually Get a Sweet Harvest) April 20, 2026 Education, Perennials, Plants, Spring, Summer Few things beat homegrown strawberries—sun-warmed, sweet, and way better than anything from the grocery store. The good news? They’re also one of the most rewarding crops for Western New York gardeners when planted the right way. Here’s how to set yourself up for a berry-packed season. Pick the Right Strawberry Type Not all strawberries behave the same, so it helps to know your options: June-bearing: Big harvest all at once in early summer. Great if you want jam-making or baking days. Everbearing: Two to three smaller harvests through the season. Tip: for Rochester-area gardens, many growers mix types for a longer harvest window. Timing is Everything In Western NY, strawberries are best planted in early spring (late April to May) once the soil is workable. The earlier they go in, the better they can establish before summer heat kicks in. Location, Location, Location Strawberries are sun-lovers. Choose a spot that gets at least 6–8 hours of full sun daily. More sun = sweeter berries. Avoid low-lying areas where water sits—wet roots lead to weak plants and fewer berries. Soil That Sets Them Up for Success Strawberries prefer: Well-drained soil Slightly acidic pH (around 5.5–6.5) Rich organic matter Work in compost before planting to give them a strong start. Raised beds are a great option if your soil is heavy clay (very common in our area). Planting Basics Space plants about 12–18 inches apart Keep the crown (center of the plant) just above soil level Water thoroughly after planting Mulch lightly with straw or shredded leaves to keep weeds down and moisture consistent Care Through the Season Water consistently—about 1 inch per week Remove flowers in the first year (yes, really!) so plants focus on strong root growth Keep beds weed-free so strawberries aren’t competing for nutrients Watch for Common Issues Slugs, birds, and fungal diseases are the usual suspects. Netting can help protect ripening berries, and good airflow between plants helps prevent disease. Final Thought Strawberries reward a little planning with a lot of payoff. Plant them once, care for them right, and you’ll be picking sweet fruit for seasons to come. And if you’re not sure where to start—Van Putte Gardens has the plants, soil amendments, and advice to help you grow your best berry patch yet.