Strawberry plants can stand some cold temperatures, frost can cause significant harm to the plants, especially in winter and early spring. If the temperature drops below 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius), your strawberry plants can be damaged. Choose cold hardy varieties such as Chandler and Allstar if you live in a cold area.
In this article, we will explore how much cold strawberry plants can tolerate and how to care for them during the winter months to keep them healthy and productive.
Key Takeaways
- Strawberry plants can tolerate some cold weather, but frost can cause significant damage, especially in winter and early spring.
- Choose cold-hardy varieties such as Chandler and Allstar if you live in a colder area.
- If you want to grow strawberries in USDA zone 5 or below, you need to protect the plants during the winter to avoid damage.
Understanding Cold Hardy Strawberry Plants
There are many different types of cold hardy strawberry plants, including the Ogallala everbearer and the Day-neutral varieties. These plants are known for their ability to produce high yields of delicious, flavorful fruit, even in colder temperatures.
Cold hardy strawberry plants are less likely to suffer from frost damage or die off during the winter months. They can be more disease-resistant and require less maintenance than other varieties. This means that you can spend less time caring for your plants and more time enjoying the delicious fruit they produce.
Another benefit of choosing cold hardy strawberry plants is that they are often able to produce fruit earlier in the season than other varieties. This means that you can enjoy fresh, juicy strawberries sooner and for a longer period of time.
Common Cold Hardy Strawberry Plant Varieties
If you’re looking for cold hardy strawberry plants, there are several varieties you can choose from. Here are three popular cold hardy strawberry plant varieties:
1. Chandler
Chandler is a June-bearing strawberry plant that is known for its large, sweet, and juicy berries. It is also a very cold hardy variety that can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F. Chandler is a popular choice for gardeners in colder climates because it produces a high yield of fruit and is resistant to disease.
2. Allstar
Allstar is another June-bearing strawberry plant that is known for its large, firm, and flavorful berries. It is also a very cold hardy variety that can withstand temperatures as low as -25°F. Allstar is a popular choice for gardeners in colder climates because it produces a high yield of fruit and is resistant to disease.
3. Earliglow
Earliglow is a June-bearing strawberry plant that is known for its sweet and flavorful berries. It is also a very cold hardy variety that can withstand temperatures as low as -20°F. Earliglow is a popular choice for gardeners in colder climates because it produces a high yield of fruit and is resistant to disease.
When choosing a cold hardy strawberry plant variety, it’s important to consider factors such as the plant’s yield, flavor, and disease resistance. Chandler, Allstar, and Earliglow are all excellent choices for gardeners in colder climates, but there are many other cold hardy varieties to choose from as well.
How to Protect Strawberry Plants from Cold
You can help all strawberry varieties to grow better in cold climates with a few easy tips. Check out these easy things you can do to help your strawberries to grow in the cold.
1. Soil Type and Quality
The type and quality of soil in that you grow your strawberry plants in can help to protect them from the cold. Soil that is rich in organic matter and well-draining will have good air circulation and drainage. This will encourage a healthy root system and a healthy crown which will grow a hardier and healthier plant which will be more cold tolerant.
2. Plant Variety
The variety of strawberry plant that you choose can also affect its cold hardiness. Some varieties of strawberry plants are better able to tolerate cold temperatures than others. Choose cold tolerant varieties such as Chandler, Allstart and Earliglow.
3. Mulch
Mulching is one of the most effective ways to protect your strawberry plants from cold. In the fall, add a layer of mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture, stop weeds, and prevent dirt from splashing on the fruit and leaves.
Mulch your strawberry plants with straw or other organic materials to help insulate them and protect them from frost damage. You can also cover your plants with blankets or other materials to provide additional protection from the cold.
3. Covering
Covering your strawberry plants can also help to protect them from cold weather. You can use blankets, tarps, or row covers to cover the plants.
Make sure the covering is securely anchored to the ground to prevent it from blowing away in the wind. Be sure to remove the covering once the weather warms up to prevent the plants from overheating.
4. Watering
Watering your strawberry plants can also help to protect them from cold weather. Water the plants thoroughly before a freeze to help insulate the roots and keep the soil moist. You can also use overhead irrigation during cold temperatures to protect the plants from frost and freeze damage. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.
5. Pruning
Pruning your strawberry plants can help to protect them from cold weather by removing dead or damaged leaves and stems. This will help to improve air circulation around the plants and reduce the risk of fungal diseases. Prune your plants in the fall after the last harvest, and again in the spring before new growth appears.
By following these tips, you can help to protect your strawberry plants from cold weather and ensure a healthy crop of juicy berries. Remember to monitor the weather forecast and take appropriate action to protect your plants when necessary.
Conclusion
Strawberry plants are generally considered to be cold hardy. They can survive cold temperatures making them a great choice for gardeners in areas with mild winters. However, in more northern or southern regions, extra care may be required to ensure their survival.
To protect your strawberry plants from the cold, you can use mulch to insulate the soil and protect the roots. You can also cover the plants with blankets or frost cloth to shield them from frost and freezing temperatures. It is important to note that strawberries are particularly at risk when they reach temperatures below 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius), which can be checked with a soil thermometer.
Happy growing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the lowest temperature strawberry plants can tolerate?
Strawberry plants are at their best in temperatures of 60 – 80 degrees Fahrenheit (15 – 26 degrees Celsius) but can tolerate cold as low as 22 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 degrees Celsius) provided they are protected from frost. Some frost-resistant varieties can tolerate even lower temperatures, as low as -20°F.
How can I protect my strawberry plants from frost?
To protect your strawberry plants from frost, you can cover them with a layer of straw, leaves, or other organic material. You can also use frost blankets or row covers to protect the plants from frost. It is important to cover the plants before the frost sets in and remove the cover during the day to prevent overheating.
Can strawberry plants survive winter in a raised bed?
Yes, strawberry plants can survive winter in a raised bed. However, it is important to provide them with adequate protection from frost. You can cover the plants with a layer of straw or other organic material, or use frost blankets or row covers to protect them from frost.
What are some benefits of frost-resistant strawberries?
Frost-resistant strawberries have several benefits, including:
- They can survive colder temperatures than other varieties, which means they can be grown in areas with harsh winters.
- They are less likely to suffer from frost damage, which means they are more likely to produce a good crop.
- They are often disease-resistant, which means they require less maintenance and are less likely to be affected by pests and diseases.
Are there any disadvantages to planting frost-resistant strawberries?
There are no significant disadvantages to planting frost-resistant strawberries. However, some varieties may not be as flavorful as other varieties, so it is important to choose a variety that suits your taste preferences.
Can strawberry plants survive outside in winter?
Yes, strawberry plants can survive outside in winter. However, it is important to provide them with adequate protection from frost. You can cover the plants with a layer of straw or other organic material, or use frost blankets or row covers to protect them from frost. It is also important to choose a variety that is suitable for your climate.
I am an accredited practicing dietitian, experienced gardener and a dedicated cook. I love writing and sharing my experience so you can learn from my successes and mistakes.