Vegetable Garden - Tips on Growing Strawberries from Seed

Sow seeds thinly in a fine soil less mix. Press seeds into moist mix and keep moist until plants emerge in 2-3 weeks. Keep soil temperature between 60°F (16°C) and 75°F (24°C), if possible. Transplant to plug trays or 1-1 1/2" apart in flats, then to larger pots or planters for retailing full-size plants: 1 plant/3-4" pot; 3-5 plants/8" pot. Transplant outdoors anytime, 1' apart. Tolerant to partial shade and they prefer moist soil. Days to fruit:100 days.

• strawberry seeds, including alpine strawberries, need to be cold-treated before planting. Wrap the seeds and put them in the freezer for about a month. Let them warm up slowly.
• Germinate strawberry seeds by placing them under a thin layer of soil and keeping them moist.
• When the plants get their second set of true leaves, thin them out, leaving three to four inches between plants. Or, replant them into separate containers.
• Once the plants are big enough to plant in the garden, remember to introduce them to the outdoors gradually. Start by setting them outside for a few hours in the afternoon, adding an hour or two each day.
• Transplant your plants into your garden. Pinch off the first flowers so that your plants will develop strong roots.