No Fruit on Strawberry Plants | Top 11 Reasons Why

Strawberry plants will not produce fruit if the plant is too young, if the weather is too hot or too cold, if the plant does not have enough potassium or the flowers are not getting pollinated. To get the most fruit on strawberry plants give them regular water and protect them from extreme heat with shade.

One of the most common reasons why strawberry plants don’t produce fruit is that they’re too young. If you’ve recently planted your strawberry plants, it may take up to a year for them to grow deep root systems and produce fruit. Additionally, strawberry plants may not produce fruit if they’re planted in the wrong soil or if they’re not getting enough water or nutrients.

By understanding the growth cycles of strawberry plants and the optimal growing conditions, you can take steps to ensure that your plants produce plenty of fruit.

Strawberries need water, sunlight and good soil to grow lots of fruit.

Reasons Why There is No Fruit on Your Strawberry Plants

Check out the top reasons why there is no fruit growing on your strawberry plants and what you can do to solve each one.

1. Strawberry plant is too young

Strawberry plants from a nursery are young will take up to a year to grow strawberries. They will grow a deep root system, lots of leaves and send out shoots. You may not get fruit until the next spring or summer as the plant grows.

Strawberry plants are long lasting and will send out baby plants on runners to replace the mother plant. Within the next year you should have a patch full of strawberries all growing fruit.

Solution: Be patient and wait for your strawberries to grow. Growing strawberries from seed will take even longer so buy established plants from garden centers or online and you will get strawberries quicker. A healthy, green leafy plant is a good sign for strawberries to come.

2. It is the wrong time of the year for strawberries

Nurseries are growing strawberries that produce fruit at different times of year. Most plants will grow fruit from early spring to summer but some will also produce fruit again in Fall. Check the label when you get your strawberry to figure out when it will fruit.

Choose a range of strawberry varieties and plant 2-3 plants that fruit at different times. You can extend your strawberry harvest through spring, summer and fall for (almost) a full year of fruit.

When it comes to growing strawberries, the weather and seasonal influences play a significant role. The plants require a certain amount of sunlight, water, and heat to produce fruit. Here are some weather and seasonal influences that could be affecting your strawberry plants:

Temperature

Strawberry plants grow best in temperatures between 60-80°F (15-27°C). If temperatures are too high or too low, the plants may not produce fruit. During the winter months, the plants may go dormant, and you may not see fruit until the spring or summer.

Rainfall

Strawberry plants require consistent moisture to produce fruit. If there is not enough rain, you may need to water the plants regularly. On the other hand, too much rain can cause the fruit to rot, and the plants may not produce as much fruit.

Daylight Hours

Strawberry plants require a certain amount of daylight to produce fruit. During the winter months, the days are shorter, and the plants may not produce fruit until the days start to get longer in the spring.

Soil Temperature

The soil temperature is also important for growing strawberries. The plants prefer soil temperatures between 60-70°F (15-21°C). If the soil is too cold, the plants may not produce fruit. You can use a soil thermometer to check the temperature of the soil.

Frost

Frost can damage strawberry plants and cause them to stop producing fruit. If you live in an area with frost, you may need to cover the plants or move them indoors during the winter months.

By understanding the weather and seasonal influences that affect your strawberry plants, you can take steps to ensure that they produce fruit. Keep an eye on the temperature, rainfall, daylight hours, soil temperature, and frost in your area, and adjust your growing methods accordingly

3. Not enough food for your strawberry plant

Strawberry plants will need the right amount of nutrients to grow fruit. If they haven’t got a good range of nutrients available they will struggle to grow strawberries. Planting in poor, sandy soil or hard clay will stop your plants from getting the food they need.

Solution: Prepare the soil with aged cow manure and compost before you plant your strawberries. Add a handful of pelleted chicken manure in spring and fall and your strawberries will be happy.

Note: Using organic fertilizers usually avoids this problem as they are mild and have a good NPK balance.

Nitrogen Deficiency

Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients for plant growth, and a deficiency can lead to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and poor fruit production. If you notice that your strawberry plants are not growing as quickly as they should be, or if the leaves are turning yellow, it may be a sign of a nitrogen deficiency.

To remedy this issue, you can add a nitrogen-rich fertilizer like chicken manure pellets to the soil around your plants. You can also add compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve the overall nutrient content.

Potassium Deficiency

Potassium is another essential nutrient for strawberry plants. A deficiency can lead to weak stems, poor fruit production, and increased susceptibility to disease.

If your strawberry plants are showing signs of a potassium deficiency, such as yellowing leaves and stunted growth, you can add a potassium-rich fertilizer to the soil. You can also add wood ash or other potassium-rich organic matter to the soil to improve the nutrient content.

Remember, maintaining a proper balance of nutrients is essential for the health and productivity of your strawberry plants. By paying attention to the signs of nutrient deficiencies and taking steps to correct them, you can ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious, juicy strawberries.

4. Strawberry flowers are not getting pollinated

Strawberry flowers need to be pollinated by insects or by hand to produce strawberries. If you are growing strawberries indoors or in a greenhouse they may not get pollinated by insects. Insects will move pollen from one flower to the other as they collect nectar. This is what your plant needs to grow strawberries.

To ensure adequate pollination, you can take a few steps. First, make sure that your strawberry plants are located in an area with plenty of pollinators, such as bees or butterflies. You can also hand-pollinate your plants by using a small brush or cotton swab to transfer pollen from the male flower to the female flower.

It’s important to note that inadequate pollination can not only result in no fruit on strawberry plants, but it can also lead to misshapen or small fruit. This is because each individual seed in the fruit needs to be pollinated in order to develop properly. Without adequate pollination, some seeds may not develop fully, resulting in smaller or misshapen fruit.

Solution: Attract pollinating insects to your garden by planting a range of flowering plants. Wildflower mixes are great as they will have flowers of different heights that flower at different times of year. For indoor plants, use a small paintbrush to move pollen from one flower to the other.

Strawberry flowers need to be pollinated by insects or with a small paintbrush by hand

5. The wrong amount of water to grow strawberries

Strawberry plants like the perfect amount of water. If you are adding too much water you might be rotting the plant but if you don’t add enough water the plant might be drying out. Strawberry plants like to be kept moist as they have shallow roots and get most of the water from the top of the soil

Solution: Keep your strawberry plant well-watered but check the soil with your finger first. If it has dried 1 inch down, then water your strawberry well. Check your strawberries regularly in warm weather and make sure they don’t dry out. Add straw mulch to help keep the moisture in.

6. The weather is too hot for strawberries

Strawberries like a mild climate and if the weather becomes too hot they can quickly dry out and won’t grow fruit. If you live in an area that gets very hot over summer, strawberries might be more difficult to grow but there is a solution.

Solution: Cover the strawberries with 50% shade-cloth on very hot days. This will shade the strawberries and stop the moisture from escaping from the soil as quickly. Mulch the strawberries with straw or sugar cane mulch and water well in the morning.

7. The pot is getting too hot and dry for strawberries

Strawberries are know for growing well in pots but if the soil gets too hot or dries out then the strawberry can quickly die. Black pots left in the sun or shallow pots can dry out very quickly.

Solution: Choose a deep pot made from natural material like timber. Raised garden beds work perfectly for strawberries as the soil is deeper so won’t dry out as quickly. Fill it with a good quality potting soil and mulch with sugar cane or straw.

My new strawberry has already sent out runners ready for growing strawberries in spring.

8. Too much nitrogen to grow strawberries

Strawberries that are getting too much nitrogen will spend all of their energy growing new leaves and stems and will forget about producing fruit. It is the balance of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus or NPK that sends the message to the strawberry to produce fruit. Too much nitrogen means more leaves and less fruit.

Solution: Hold off on adding any more fertilizer for the next few months. The plant will use up the nitrogen and find the right balance to grow strawberries. For a quicker result apply a fruit promoting fertilizer that will be higher in potassium.

9. Pests and Diseases

Strawberries are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases that can affect their growth and fruit production. In this section, we will discuss two common issues that can impact your strawberry plants: spider mites and fungal infections.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that can be difficult to detect with the naked eye. They are usually found on the underside of leaves and can cause damage by sucking the sap from the plant. This can result in yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and reduced fruit production.

To prevent spider mites, it is important to keep your strawberry plants healthy and well-watered. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control spider mites if they appear.

Fungal Infections

Fungal infections are another common issue that can affect strawberry plants. These infections can cause a range of symptoms, including leaf spots, powdery mildew, and fruit rot.

To prevent fungal infections, it is important to maintain good air circulation around your plants and avoid overcrowding. You can also use fungicides to control fungal infections if they appear.

Overall, by being vigilant and taking preventative measures, you can help keep your strawberry plants healthy and productive.

10. Crowding and Poor Plant Spacing

If you have planted your strawberry plants too close together, or if they are overcrowded, they may not produce fruit. This is because the plants will compete for sunlight, water, and nutrients, which are essential for fruit production.

When the plants are too close together, they will also create a humid and warm environment, which can lead to the development of fungal diseases. These diseases can affect the health of the plants and reduce their fruit production.

To avoid overcrowding, it is important to space your strawberry plants properly. The recommended spacing for strawberry plants is 18 to 24 inches apart in rows that are 3 to 4 feet apart. This will give the plants enough room to grow and produce fruit.

If you have already planted your strawberry plants too close together, you can still save them. You can thin out the plants by removing the weaker ones, leaving only the healthiest and strongest plants. This will give the remaining plants more space to grow and produce fruit.

11. Improper Pruning

Pruning your strawberry plants is essential to ensure they produce fruit. However, improper pruning techniques can lead to a lack of fruit production. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Cutting off all the leaves: While it may seem like a good idea to cut off all the leaves to promote new growth, it can actually harm the plant. Strawberry leaves are responsible for photosynthesis, which is necessary for the plant to produce fruit. Cutting off all the leaves can reduce the plant’s ability to photosynthesize, leading to a lack of fruit production.
Pruning too early: Pruning too early in the season can also lead to a lack of fruit production. Strawberry plants need their leaves to mature before they can produce fruit. If you prune too early, you may remove the leaves before they have a chance to mature, leading to a lack of fruit production.
Not pruning at all: On the other hand, not pruning your strawberry plants can also lead to a lack of fruit production. Overgrown plants can become crowded, leading to a lack of airflow and sunlight, which can prevent the plants from producing fruit.

To avoid these mistakes, make sure you prune your strawberry plants at the right time and in the right way. Always use sharp, clean pruning shears, and make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle. Remove any dead or damaged leaves, as well as any runners that are not needed for propagation. By properly pruning your strawberry plants, you can ensure that they produce plenty of fruit for you to enjoy.

Understanding Strawberry Plant Growth Cycles

To understand why there may be no fruit on your strawberry plants, it’s important to understand the growth cycle of these plants. Here’s a breakdown of the growth cycle of a typical strawberry plant:

Year 1: During the first year of growth, your strawberry plant will focus on establishing a strong root system, growing lots of leaves, and sending out shoots. You may not get fruit until the following spring or summer as the plant grows.
Year 2: In the second year, your strawberry plant will produce the majority of its fruit. Once the fruit has been harvested, the plant will continue to produce runners, or shoots that will become new plants.
Year 3 and beyond: As your strawberry plant enters its third year and beyond, its fruit production will start to decline. At this point, it’s a good idea to replace the plant with a new one to ensure continued fruit production.

It’s important to note that the above growth cycle is a general guideline, and the exact timing of each stage may vary depending on factors such as climate, soil conditions, and the specific variety of strawberry plant.

If you’re not seeing fruit on your strawberry plants, there are several possible reasons why, including:

The plant is too young and hasn’t reached its fruit-bearing stage yet.
The plant isn’t getting enough sunlight or nutrients.
The plant is being overwatered or underwatered.
The plant is being attacked by pests or diseases.

By understanding the growth cycle of your strawberry plants and taking steps to address any issues that may be affecting fruit production, you can help ensure a bountiful harvest of delicious, sweet strawberries.

Optimal Growing Conditions for Strawberries

Soil Quality

Strawberries require well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. The ideal soil pH for strawberries is between 5.5 and 6.5. To ensure that your soil is at the right pH, you may need to add lime or sulfur. A soil test can help you determine the pH of your soil.

Sunlight Exposure

Strawberries need full sun to grow and produce fruit. They should be planted in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. If your plants are not receiving enough sunlight, they may not produce fruit or the fruit may be small.

Watering Practices

Strawberries require consistent moisture throughout the growing season. They should be watered deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather and soil conditions. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Mulching around the plants can help to retain moisture in the soil and prevent weeds from competing with the strawberries for water and nutrients.

By providing your strawberries with the optimal growing conditions, you can increase the likelihood of a successful harvest. Remember to test your soil pH, provide ample sunlight, and water your plants consistently for best results.

Optimal Growing Conditions for Strawberries

Soil Quality

Sunlight Exposure

Watering Practices

How to get strawberries to grow more fruit

To get your strawberry plant to produce more fruit plant give it good soil and lots of water. Plant it in soil that has added compost and aged cow manure. Choose a sunny spot in your garden to encourage the strawberry plant to grow fast and produce flowers.

Mulch strawberries with straw to keep the moisture in the soil and keep the plant well watered. Encourage pollinating insects by filling your garden with flowering shrubs and annuals and you should have lots of strawberries by the next spring.

How to get strawberries to flower

To get strawberries to flower give them the time to establish into a large plant. Prepare the soil with organic matter and add a small amount of organic slow release fertilizer in spring. This will create a balance of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus that will encourage flowers and then fruit.

If after a year your plant is not growing flowers, try adding a specialized flower and fruit fertilizer that will be higher in potassium and can encourage more flowers and fruit.

What to do if a strawberry plant has lots of leaves and runners and no fruit

If your strawberry plant has grow lots of leaves and runners then it is best not to add any more fertilizer and allow the strawberry to grow. If it is a young plant it will be establishing itself in the garden by growing a deeper root system, more leaves and stems and more runners.

By the next spring it will be ready to grow flowers and fruit. Strawberries will keep producing new plants by sending out runners. Once the plant is bigger, you can cut the runner and move the plant to a new bed.

Summary

Be patient if you haven’t seen any strawberries on your plant yet. Let it establish and keep it well watered. After a few months it should be ready to grow flowers and fruit. Strawberries will continue to re-grow sending out shoots to grow new plants. Soon, you will have a garden full of strawberries for your family.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are coffee grounds good for strawberry plants?

Coffee grounds work best when added to compost first to break down before adding to strawberry plants. Coffee grounds are high in nitrogen and will make a rich compost when broken down over 3 months. This will help to reduce the acidity and break down any chemicals that might be in the coffee.

Add a good layer of compost to the top of the strawberry plant root zone to hold the moisture in the soil and encourage good microbe growth. Worms will work their way through the soil to break down the compost and work it into the soil for your plants.

What factors can prevent strawberry plants from producing fruit?

There are a number of factors that can prevent strawberry plants from producing fruit. One of the most common reasons is that the plants are too young. Strawberry plants from a nursery are young and can take up to a year to grow strawberries. They will grow a deep root system, lots of leaves, and send out shoots. You may not get fruit until the next spring or summer as the plant grows. Other reasons include poor soil quality, lack of sunlight, inconsistent watering, and pests.

How does the choice of fertilizer impact strawberry fruit development?

The choice of fertilizer can have a significant impact on strawberry fruit development. Fertilizers that are high in nitrogen can encourage the growth of leaves and stems at the expense of fruit production. This is because nitrogen promotes vegetative growth. On the other hand, fertilizers that are high in phosphorus and potassium can promote flower and fruit development. It is important to choose a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for strawberries and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

What are the best practices for ensuring everbearing strawberry plants continue to fruit?

To ensure that everbearing strawberry plants continue to fruit, it is important to follow a few best practices. First, make sure that the plants are getting enough sunlight. Strawberry plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to produce fruit. Second, make sure that the plants are getting enough water. Strawberry plants need consistent moisture, but they should not be overwatered. Finally, make sure that the plants are getting enough nutrients. Use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for strawberries and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.

How crucial is potassium in the fruiting process of strawberry plants?

Potassium is crucial in the fruiting process of strawberry plants. Potassium is a macronutrient that is essential for plant growth and development. It plays a key role in the formation of flower buds and the development of fruit. Without adequate potassium, strawberry plants may produce small or misshapen fruit, or they may not produce fruit at all. It is important to use a fertilizer that is high in potassium to promote fruit development.

When should strawberry plants typically begin to flower and set fruit?

Strawberry plants typically begin to flower and set fruit in the spring. The exact timing can vary depending on the climate and the variety of strawberry plant. In general, everbearing strawberry plants will produce fruit throughout the growing season, while June-bearing strawberry plants will produce a single crop in early summer. It is important to monitor the plants closely and to provide the appropriate care to promote flower and fruit development.

What are common reasons for strawberry plant seedlings to exhibit stunted growth?

There are a number of reasons why strawberry plant seedlings may exhibit stunted growth. One common reason is that the plants are not getting enough sunlight. Strawberry plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight per day to grow and develop properly. Another common reason is that the plants are not getting enough nutrients.

Make sure to use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for strawberries and to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application. Finally, pests and diseases can also cause stunted growth in strawberry plants. It is important to monitor the plants closely and to take action if any issues arise.

Kylie T

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.