The Best Soil for Strawberry Plants

Soil Testing

• Test the soil before planting strawberries, as they do best in soil that falls between 5.5 to 6.5 on the acidity scale, which is almost neutral. Lower readings call for the addition of lime to raise the numbers to the proper level.

Growth Requirements

• Strawberries do not send down deep roots, but they prefer soil that has been spaded and loosened to provide optimum drainage. Grow strawberries on raised beds, which are more efficient at draining excess water from the plants, suggests the Ohio State University Extension.

Fertilizers

• If the soil hasn't been tested, the North Carolina Extension Service recommends spreading 4 lbs. of 10-10-10 fertilizer per 100 feet of row at least two weeks before planting time. This will correct deficiencies in the levels of nitrogen, potassium and phosphorous that strawberries need for proper development and fruit production.