Colorado’s high altitude and intense sunlight create growing conditions where strawberries need extra protection from UV rays and temperature swings. Finding the best strawberries to grow in colorado means picking varieties that can handle these unique challenges. You want plants that produce sweet fruit despite cool nights and strong sun.
Strawberries in Colorado are not like those in California or Florida. The growing season is shorter, and the weather can change fast. But with the right choices, you can get a great harvest. This guide will help you pick the best types for your garden.
We will cover day-neutral, June-bearing, and everbearing varieties. Each has pros and cons for Colorado’s climate. You will learn which ones resist disease and handle cold snaps best.
Let’s get started with the top picks for your mountain garden.
Best Strawberries To Grow In Colorado
When you search for the best strawberries to grow in Colorado, you will find three main types. Day-neutral varieties are often the top choice. They produce fruit all season long, from June until the first frost. This is great for Colorado’s short but intense growing period.
June-bearing strawberries give one big harvest in early summer. They work well if you want to make jam or freeze berries. Everbearing types produce two or three smaller crops. Each type has its own strengths.
Here are the top varieties for Colorado gardens:
- Albion – Day-neutral, very sweet, and resistant to disease. It handles Colorado’s temperature swings well.
- Seascape – Day-neutral, produces large fruit all summer. It tolerates heat and cold better than most.
- Fort Laramie – Everbearing, developed for cold climates. It survives harsh winters and gives good yields.
- Honeoye – June-bearing, early harvest, and very hardy. It is a reliable choice for high altitudes.
- Ozark Beauty – Everbearing, produces runners and fruit. It adapts to Colorado’s variable weather.
- Earliglow – June-bearing, excellent flavor, and disease resistant. It ripens early, beating the heat.
These varieties have been tested in Colorado conditions. They resist common issues like root rot and powdery mildew. Choose based on your garden space and how you plan to use the fruit.
Why Day-Neutral Strawberries Work Best
Day-neutral strawberries are the best strawberries to grow in Colorado for most gardeners. They flower and fruit regardless of day length. This means they keep producing from late spring to fall. In Colorado, where summer can be short, this is a big advantage.
These plants need consistent watering and feeding. They also benefit from shade cloth during the hottest part of the day. The intense UV rays at high altitude can scorch leaves. A light shade cover helps keep plants healthy.
Day-neutral varieties like Albion and Seascape are also less prone to disease. They have good resistance to verticillium wilt and leaf spot. This saves you time and effort on treatments.
June-Bearing Varieties For Big Harvests
If you want one big harvest for preserving, June-bearing strawberries are a solid choice. They produce all their fruit in a three-week window in early summer. Varieties like Honeoye and Earliglow are top picks for Colorado.
June-bearing plants need more space because they send out many runners. They also require winter protection. Mulch heavily with straw or leaves after the ground freezes. This prevents frost heave and root damage.
These varieties often have better flavor than day-neutral types. The fruit is usually larger and more aromatic. But you only get one chance per year. Plan your harvest accordingly.
Everbearing Options For Continuous Fruit
Everbearing strawberries produce two or three crops per season. They are a middle ground between day-neutral and June-bearing. Varieties like Fort Laramie and Ozark Beauty are popular in Colorado.
These plants are hardy and can survive cold winters. They also tolerate the dry air and intense sun. Everbearing types need regular watering to keep fruit quality high. The first crop comes in early summer, the second in late summer.
Everbearing strawberries are good for small gardens. They do not spread as much as June-bearing types. You can grow them in containers or raised beds.
Planting Strawberries In Colorado
Planting strawberries at the right time is crucial. In Colorado, wait until after the last frost, usually in May. Soil temperature should be at least 60°F. Cold soil can stunt growth and cause root rot.
Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Strawberries need at least six hours of direct sun daily. In high altitude areas, morning sun is best. Afternoon shade can protect plants from intense UV rays.
Prepare the soil by mixing in compost or aged manure. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH of 5.5 to 6.5. Test your soil and adjust if needed. Good drainage is essential to prevent fungal diseases.
Step-By-Step Planting Guide
Follow these steps for healthy strawberry plants:
- Dig holes deep enough to cover the roots but keep the crown above soil level.
- Space plants 12 to 18 inches apart. Rows should be 3 to 4 feet apart.
- Water thoroughly after planting. Keep soil moist but not soggy.
- Apply a layer of straw mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Use a balanced fertilizer like 10-10-10 after planting. Follow package directions.
Watering is critical in Colorado’s dry climate. Drip irrigation works best. It delivers water directly to the roots and keeps leaves dry. Wet leaves can lead to powdery mildew and other diseases.
Protecting Plants From Colorado Weather
Colorado’s weather can be harsh. Sudden hailstorms, strong winds, and temperature drops can damage plants. Use row covers or cloches for protection. These also help extend the growing season.
In winter, mulch heavily with straw or pine needles. This insulates the roots and prevents freeze-thaw cycles. Remove the mulch in spring when new growth appears. Be careful not to damage the crowns.
UV radiation is another concern. At high altitude, the sun is stronger. Use shade cloth with 30% to 50% shade during the hottest part of the day. This prevents leaf scorch and keeps fruit from sunburn.
Caring For Your Strawberry Plants
Regular care keeps your strawberry plants productive. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on rainfall. Colorado is dry, so you may need to water more often in summer. Check soil moisture by sticking your finger an inch into the soil.
Fertilize every four to six weeks during the growing season. Use a balanced fertilizer or one high in phosphorus for fruit production. Avoid too much nitrogen, which causes leafy growth and fewer berries.
Remove runners from day-neutral and everbearing varieties. Runners take energy away from fruit production. For June-bearing types, let some runners grow to replace old plants. This keeps your patch productive for years.
Pest And Disease Management
Common pests in Colorado include slugs, aphids, and spider mites. Slugs can be controlled with diatomaceous earth or beer traps. Aphids and mites can be washed off with a strong spray of water. Use insecticidal soap if needed.
Diseases like powdery mildew and root rot are more common in humid conditions. In Colorado’s dry air, these are less of a problem. Still, good air circulation helps. Space plants properly and avoid overhead watering.
Gray mold (Botrytis) can affect fruit in wet weather. Remove any infected berries immediately. Keep the area clean of fallen leaves and debris. Mulch helps keep fruit off the soil.
Harvesting And Storing
Harvest strawberries when they are fully red. Pick in the morning when they are cool. Use scissors or pinch the stem to avoid damaging the plant. Do not wash berries until you are ready to eat them. Washing removes the natural protective coating.
Store unwashed berries in the refrigerator. They last about three to five days. For longer storage, freeze them. Wash, hull, and spread on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a bag. Frozen berries last up to six months.
You can also make jam or dehydrate them. Colorado’s dry climate is perfect for drying fruit. Slice berries and place in a dehydrator or low oven. Store in an airtight container.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Many gardeners make mistakes with strawberries in Colorado. Here are the most common ones and how to avoid them:
- Planting too deep. The crown must be above soil level. Buried crowns rot quickly.
- Overwatering. Strawberries need consistent moisture but not soggy soil. Drainage is key.
- Not mulching. Mulch protects roots from temperature swings and keeps fruit clean.
- Ignoring UV protection. Shade cloth is essential in high altitude areas.
- Choosing the wrong variety. Some strawberries do not handle Colorado’s conditions. Stick to recommended types.
Avoid these pitfalls and your plants will thrive. Strawberries are rewarding but need attention. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh fruit all summer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best strawberries to grow in Colorado for beginners?
Day-neutral varieties like Albion and Seascape are easiest for beginners. They produce fruit all season and are forgiving of mistakes. They also resist disease well.
Can I grow strawberries in containers in Colorado?
Yes, containers work great. Use pots with drainage holes and quality potting soil. Place them in a spot with morning sun and afternoon shade. Water more often since containers dry out faster.
How do I protect strawberries from Colorado hail?
Use row covers or cloches during hailstorms. You can also build a simple frame with PVC pipes and cover it with netting. Remove covers after the storm to allow air circulation.
When is the best time to plant strawberries in Colorado?
Plant in spring after the last frost, usually in May. Soil should be warm, at least 60°F. Fall planting is possible but risky due to early frosts.
Do strawberries need full sun in Colorado?
They need at least six hours of sun, but afternoon shade helps in high altitude areas. Too much intense sun can scorch leaves and fruit. Morning sun with afternoon shade is ideal.
Final Tips For Success
Growing strawberries in Colorado is very doable with the right approach. Start with quality plants from a local nursery. They are already adapted to your area. Avoid bargain plants from big box stores, which may not be suited for high altitude.
Rotate your strawberry patch every three to four years. This prevents soil-borne diseases. Plant in a new location with fresh soil. Add compost to keep the soil fertile.
Keep a garden journal. Note when you planted, what varieties you used, and how they performed. This helps you improve each year. Share your experiences with local gardening groups. They can offer advice specific to your microclimate.
Strawberries are a rewarding crop for Colorado gardeners. With the right varieties and care, you can enjoy sweet, homegrown fruit. Start small, learn as you go, and expand your patch over time. Your efforts will pay off with delicious berries all season long.
Remember to water consistently, protect from intense sun, and choose varieties that match your needs. Whether you prefer day-neutral, June-bearing, or everbearing, there is a perfect strawberry for your Colorado garden. Happy growing.