There’re several types of fruits that a homeowner can grow in their garden. Among these fruits, strawberries are one of the most preferred options. Typically, strawberries are hardy fruit plants. They can be grown in about any gardening environment. Despite being resilient, strawberry plants require fertilizer to grow healthy. Applying the best fertilizer for strawberries will ensure you get a bountiful harvest with more delicious fruits.
Just like fertilizer for fruit trees, fertilizer for strawberries enrich the soil with nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Essentially, strawberries have shallow roots. Thus, they uptake nutrients at the top area of the soil. If they exhaust the nutrients, they may develop yellow or pale leaves, fail to flower, or even fail to produce berries. In this case, you’ll need to feed them with sufficient nutrients by fertilizing them. Also, you should fertilize them during spring and fall. It’s also necessary to fertilize the soil in readiness to grow new strawberry plants.
Considering the multiple types and brands of fertilizer for strawberries in today’s market, it can be quite hectic for most growers to find the right fertilizer. We’ve undertaken the initiative to review the best brands available today. Our reviews and buying guide will take you through everything you need to know when buying fertilizer for strawberry plants. Read on through this buyer’s guide to make a more informed decision when shopping for a fertilizer for your strawberries.
Quick Comparison Table
| Product Name | Fertilizer Analysis | Our Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Miracle-Gro Continuous Release Plant Food 4.5 lb. | 9-4-12 | 4.8 | Check price |
| Miracle-Gro Performance Organics2.5 lbs | 7-6-9 | 4.7 | Check price |
| Winchester Gardens Select Organics | 2-3-4 | 4.6 | Check price |
| Indian River Organics 1 Gallon | 2-3-1 | 4.5 | Check price |
| EarthBox 81100Replant Kit | 7-7-7 | 4.4 | Check price |
| Nature’s Care 1LB | 10-3-6 | 4.3 | Check price |
Top 6 Fertilizer for Strawberries
Whether you prefer growing strawberries organically or conventionally, there’re several fertilizers to choose from. Here’re the leading brands of fertilizer for strawberries in today’s market.
1. Miracle-Gro Continuous Release Plant Food 4.5 lb.
You’ll hardly fail to come across Miracle-Gro products when shopping for fertilizer for different types of plants. This fertilizer from Miracle-Gro is specially formulated to feed fruits, especially strawberries. It’s also a great fertilizer for vegetables and tomatoes.
Top Features
- Extra natural ingredients– Besides the essential micronutrients in this fertilizer, it also contains extra natural ingredients. These ingredients include bone meal, feather meal, earthworm castings, and kelp. These ingredients work by feeding microbes within the soil. In turn, the microbes allow strawberry plants to enjoy enhanced feeding and healthier growth.
- Contains calcium– The fertilizer contains 3.5 percent calcium. Calcium assists strawberry plants to have stronger cell walls. It also assists the plants to produce berries of a higher quality. Additionally, it assists in preventing disorders in strawberries that are linked to a deficiency in calcium.
- Great for all planting environments-Another top benefit of this fertilizer is that you can add it to strawberries grown in any planting environment. Whether you’ve planted your strawberries in containers or the garden, you can safely feed them with this fertilizer. Its granular nature makes it easier to apply the right amount of fertilizer without burning your strawberries, especially when growing them in containers.
- Long-lasting feeding– The fertilizer comes in the form of granules that are formulated to feed your strawberry plants for a period of up to three months. You’ll only need to reapply it once three months are over. The granules release nutrients continuously but slowly for long term feeding.
- Simple application process-Another benefit of this fertilizer is its simple application process. You won’t have to premix it with water. You’ll only need to detach the cap on the bottle and shake it to apply the granules evenly and mix them into the soil. Once done, you’ll water the soil and the granules will start releasing nutrients.
Pros
- Dual-action feeding
- Prevents fruit cracking and blossom rot
- Starts feeding instantly
- Complete NPK formula
- Convenient bottle design
Cons
- Not the best for young plants
- Hazardous to pets
Verdict
The Miracle-Gro Continuous Release Plant Food 4.5 lb is best suitable for adding to strawberry plants that are showing calcium deficiency.
2. Miracle-Gro Performance Organics2.5 lbs
This is yet another top-quality fertilizer for strawberries from Miracle-Gro. It’s specially formulated to feed fruits such as strawberries and other plants such as herbs, tomatoes, and vegetables. Its formula is made of natural ingredients.
Top Features
- Fast results– As a gardener, you’ll appreciate it when a fertilizer shows results quickly. This fertilizer can rectify any signs of nutrient deficiencies quite fast. You can expect to see positive results within a few days when compared to unfed strawberry plants.
- Increased harvests– The formula in this fertilizer is specially blended to feed strawberry plants with essential nutrients that increase yield. If your strawberry plants have been producing a low yield, take advantage of this fertilizer to enjoy increased harvests.
- Complete formula– The fertilizer comes in a complete formula comprising 7 percent nitrogen, 6 percent phosphorous, and 9 percent potassium. This formula provides strawberry plants with the vital nutrients needed for healthier growth and production.
- Easy to dispense-Another key reason that makes this fertilizer a top choice is its bottle design. The bottle is designed to make it easier to dispense the right amount of fertilizer. You only need to open the top and pour the right amount of the fertilizer granules on the soil.
- Usable potted and garden plants– Additionally, you can use this fertilizer for both potted and garden strawberry plants. The fertilizer doesn’t require any premixing with water when applying on both potted and garden plants, making it easier to apply.
Pros
- Comes with detailed instructions
- Great for both new and mature strawberries
- Contains a rich blend of aged compost
- Covers an area of up to 220 square feet
- Organic certified
Cons
- It tends to attract some pets
- Has an unpleasant smell
Verdict
If you prefer growing strawberries organically, then this Miracle-Gro Performance Organics 2.5 lbs fertilizer is the right choice for your needs.
3. Winchester Gardens Select Organics
The Winchester Gardens Select Organics fertilizer boasts of being one of the best fertilizer for strawberries. It contains 2 percent nitrogen, 3 percent phosphorous, and 4 percent potassium. It comes in a package of 3 pounds.
Top Features
- Natural ingredients– One of the most outstanding aspects of this fertilizer is that it contains a formula derived from natural ingredients. The ingredients enhance the quality of soil. Consequently, your strawberry plants will grow healthier in nutrient-rich soil.
- Healthy berries– The organic nature of this fertilizer means that your strawberry plants will feed on nutrients derived from natural sources. As a result, your strawberry plants will produce healthier berries free from chemical traces.
- Bigger berries– If your strawberry plants have been producing tiny berries, it’s likely they’re lacking essential nutrients. This fertilizer contains essential nutrients that stimulate strawberry plants to produce bigger and juicier berries.
- Stimulates all-round growth- Another notable aspect of this organic fertilizer is that it stimulates all-round growth in strawberry plants. It promotes the growth of healthier and stronger roots, healthier stems, and increased fruiting.
- Easy to use– This fertilizer is quite easy to apply. You won’t have to mix it with water when feeding your strawberries. You only need to apply the right amount of the fertilizer with the help of the provided measuring spoon.
Pros
- Ideal for strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries
- A measuring spoon is included
- Doesn’t contain artificial chemicals
- Instructions for application are provided
- Long term feeding
Cons
- Takes time to dissolve after watering
- Not the best for strawberries grown in red clay soil
Verdict
The formula in this Winchester Gardens Select Organics fertilizer makes it great for feeding strawberry plants grown indoors.
4. Indian River Organics 1 Gallon
The Indian River organics fertilizer is a unique liquid concentrate that’s derived from fish. It’s purely natural and doesn’t contain any chemical additives. Its formula comprises 2 percent nitrogen, 3 percent phosphorous, and 1 percent potash. Besides being useful for strawberries, it’s also an effective fertilizer for grass.
Top Features
- Bigger and stronger strawberries– When applied to strawberry plants as directed, this fertilizer enhances the overall performance of the plants. It nourishes strawberry plants to grow healthier and resist pests and diseases. Consequently, the plants produce bigger and tastier strawberries.
- Enhanced absorption– The formulation in this fertilizer is directly absorbed by the roots rather than entirelygetting washed away through the soil. Also, the nutrients can be absorbed by the leaves and stems. That way, your strawberry plants will enjoy maximum feeding with a little application of the fertilizer.
- Rich in micronutrients and amino acids– Another notable aspect of this fertilizer is that it’s rich in micronutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. These micronutrients correct any nutrient deficiencies.The fertilizer also contains amino acids. Amino acids work as the main building block of proteins. They assist in maximizing growth in strawberries.
- Stimulates the growth and development of roots– Additionally, the formula in this fertilizer stimulates the growth and development of more roots in strawberry plants. The development of more roots and a better root network means that your strawberries will have more access to nutrients and absorb water more easily. This reduces the necessity for frequent watering and increases tolerance to drought.
- Environment friendly– The fertilizer is formulated in such a way that it doesn’t runoff. Also, it doesn’t leach through the soil. Thus, it doesn’t pollute rivers and other water bodies. Since it’s organic in nature, it remains in the soil for a longer period.
Pros
- Safe to use around pets and kids
- Doesn’t contain heavy metals
- Feeds beneficial microbes
- Organic certified fertilizer
- Free of contaminants
Cons
- Develops mold in potted strawberries
- Develops a strong smell after some days upon application
Verdict
The Indian River Organics 1 Gallon fertilizer is a great option for feeding strawberries to correct nutrient deficiencies and to make strawberries resist pests and diseases.
5. EarthBox 81100Replant Kit
The EarthBox 81100 Replant Kit is a special and unique gardening system for planting strawberries and vegetables in EarthBox containers. The kit includes fertilizer, dolomite, and mulch covers. It makes it possible to grow strawberries in EarthBox containers year after year.
Top Features
- Balanced fertilizer formula– One of the key aspects of this fertilizer is its well-balanced formula. It contains 7 percent nitrogen, 7 percent phosphorous, and 7 percent potassium. This means that your strawberries will be fed with balanced micronutrients for all-round growth and to eliminate any deficiencies.
- Contains dolomite-This fertilizer kit is unique in that it contains dolomite, an element that most fertilizers lack. Dolomite works by conditioning the soil. It also neutralizes acidity in the soil for a more balanced pH level. Additionally, it assists in making beneficial micronutrients more readily available to strawberry plants.
- Contains two mulch covers– Additionally, this fertilizer kit comes with two mulch covers. The mulch covers assists in preventing the growth of weeds. They also encourage enhanced soil fertility. Besides, they reduce water evaporation from the soil such that your strawberries will require less watering.
- Controls soil conditions– The formula in the fertilizer controls soil conditions to promote a better growing environment for strawberries. That way, they’re able to maximize the intake of water and nutrients. This results in healthier and stronger growth.
- Increases yield– If your strawberries are producing less yield than those grown in conventional gardens, it’s likely they’re not getting sufficient nutrients. The fertilizer in this kit contains ingredients that encourage increased yield. In fact, you’ll get more yield than strawberries planted in an unfed conventional garden.
Pros
- It increases fruiting
- Great price range for a fertilizer kit
- Applied once a year
- The mulch covers are reversible
- Reduces the effort required to grow and maintain strawberries
Cons
- The mulch covers tear easily
- Only works best with EarthBox containers
Verdict
If you’re growing your strawberries in an EarthBox container, then this is the right fertilizer kit to use to improve the potted soil conditions and increased yield.
6. Nature’s Care 1LB
The Nature’s Care fertilizer is specially formulated for organic gardening. It’s specially designed to feed fruits such as strawberries. It’s also ideal for feeding vegetables, flowers, shrubs, and trees.It has an NPK ratio of 10-3-6.
Top Features
- Water-soluble– The fertilizer comes in the form of fine particles. The particles are completely water-soluble. That way, you’ll be able to apply the fertilizer evenly to the soil.
- Promotes fast growth– The ingredients in this fertilizer promote faster growth. This will ensure that new strawberry plantings grow faster. It also promotes quicker fruiting in mature strawberry plants during their growing season.
- Large coverage-A package of 1 pound of this fertilizer can cover an area of up to 300 square feet. The amount is enough to cover several strawberry plants. Thus, it’s very economical for regular application.
- Easy to apply– The package comes with a measuring spoon. The spoon will assist you to scoop the right amount of fertilizer as per the mixing instructions. You can apply the mixture with a regular watering can. You can also use a Miracle-Gro feeder to apply it. It starts feeding strawberries as soon as it’s applied.
- All growing environments– You can safely use this fertilizer in all growing environments including in-ground, raised beds, containers, outdoor pots, and indoor pots. Whether you prefer growing strawberries in your garden or containers, this fertilizer will serve its purpose safely.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Organic certified formula
- Mixing instructions are provided
- Safe for both young and mature plants
Cons
- Requires frequent application
- The powder is dusty to work with
Verdict
The Nature’s Care 1LB fertilizer is most suitable for growing new strawberry plants for faster and healthier growth.
The Main Factors To Consider When Shopping For the Best Fertilizer for Strawberries
Applying a top quality fertilizer for strawberries the right way will nourish them with essential micronutrients that’ll promote healthier growth and increased yields. However, these fertilizers aren’t made equal. There’re certain considerations you need to make before making your choice. Here’re the most important factors to consider when shopping for fertilizer for strawberry plants.
1. Fertilizer analysis
Fertilizer analysis is a description of the nutrients contained in a fertilizer. It’s represented in the form of NPK ratio. Essentially, strawberry plants require the three basic micronutrients to grow healthier and produce a higher yield. These nutrients include nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. Ensure the fertilizer you choose has all these three micronutrients in the fertilize analysis/NPK ratio. Any extra micronutrients and minerals in the fertilizer are an added advantage.
2. Type of fertilizer
You’ll have the chance to choose between organic and chemical fertilizers. Organic fertilizers for strawberries are sourced from natural ingredients and often come in the form of granules. They’re typically applied directly to the soil, followed by watering to activate them. The main advantage of organic fertilizers is that they’re friendlier to the environment than chemical fertilizers.
On the other hand, chemical fertilizers come in the form of a powder or liquid concentrate. Chemical fertilizers require premixing with water before application. Their main advantage is that they show results faster. However, they may have negative effects on the environment.
3. Frequency of application
Some fertilizers are applied after a few days or weeks while others are applied once or a few times in a growing season. A fertilizer that requires more frequent application will be more tedious to work with but maybe less toxic and less likely to burn strawberry plants. On the other hand, a fertilizer that’s applied only a few times in a growing season will be effortless to work with but might be more toxic and more likely to burn strawberry plants if applied excessively.
4. Ease of application
Ensure the fertilizer you’re choosing is easy to apply. If it requires mixing with water before application, then it should be water-soluble for even application. If the fertilizer comes in the form of granules, the packaging should be able to dispense the granules in a controlled manner to avoid overfeeding one area.
Conclusion
Strawberries are rich in fiber, antioxidants, manganese, and vitamin C among other nutrients. By fertilizing your strawberry plants, you’ll enjoy a bigger yield with sweet, juicy berries. However, this will only be possible by applying the best fertilizer for strawberries the right way and at the right time. Take advantage of our reviews and buying guide to stand a better chance of choosing the right fertilizer for your strawberry plants.