When to Plant Strawberries in Colorado (2026 Guide)
Strawberries are a delightful perennial fruit that will bring sweetness to your garden year after year. Not only do they fill your beds with lush greenery, but they also spread via runners, creating new plants as they establish. In Colorado, the timing for planting strawberries varies by zone, ensuring that you achieve a satisfying harvest. For instance, gardeners in Zone 5b can expect their last spring frost around May 6, making it crucial to plan accordingly.
When it comes to planting, understanding your local frost dates is essential. In Colorado, Zone 5a has a last frost date of May 21, while those in the cooler Zone 3-4 may face a later last frost on June 25. These variations mean that the planting windows for strawberries differ significantly, whether you're planting bare-root crowns in spring or considering fall planting for matted-row systems.
Strawberries grow best when planted correctly at the right depth, with the crown sitting at soil level. Too deep, and you risk rot; too shallow, and the plants may dry out. With proper care and attention to planting times, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of fresh strawberries every summer in Colorado.
Planting Schedule by USDA Zone in Colorado
| Zone | Indoor start | Transplant out | Direct sow | Harvest |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zone 5b | Not started indoors — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Plant bare-root crowns Mar 1–Mar 22, ~2–4 weeks before May 6 last frost; OR plant plugs Sept 15–Oct 15 for matted-row systems. | Not direct-sown — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Harvest from June 20 – July 10, following the spring planting. |
| Zone 5a | Not started indoors — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Plant bare-root crowns Mar 1–Mar 26, ~2–4 weeks before May 21 last frost; OR plant plugs Sept 15–Oct 15 for matted-row systems. | Not direct-sown — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Harvest from June 25 – July 15, after spring planting. |
| Zone 3–4 | Not started indoors — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Plant bare-root crowns Mar 1–June 18, ~2–4 weeks before June 25 last frost; OR plant plugs Sept 15–Oct 15 for matted-row systems. | Not direct-sown — plant bare-root crowns or plugs instead. | Harvest from July 10 – July 30, following the spring planting. |
Strawberries Planting Windows in Colorado
- Indoor start: Strawberries are not started from seed indoors; instead, purchase bare-root crowns or potted plugs from a nursery.
- Transplant outdoors: For Colorado, plant bare-root crowns outdoors from March 1 to late June, or in September for matted rows.
- Harvest: Expect to harvest strawberries from late June to early August, depending on your planting time and zone.
Common Mistakes Growing Strawberries in Colorado
- One common mistake Colorado gardeners make is planting the strawberry crowns too deeply. The crown must rest at soil level; burying it can rot the roots and hinder growth.
- Overcrowding strawberry plants is another frequent error. Gardeners in Colorado often underestimate the space needed, leading to poor air circulation and increased mold risks.
- Many skip the renovation process for June-bearing varieties. After harvest, it's essential to mow down the leaves and manage runners for better yields next year.
- Some first-time gardeners believe strawberries are annuals and don't understand they produce for multiple years. This often leads to lackluster care and reduced harvests over time.
- Failing to mulch during winter months puts Colorado strawberries at risk. Cold snaps can harm unprotected crowns, leading to diminished spring returns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I plant strawberries in May if I missed March?
Yes, but be cautious. Planting in early May can work if you choose robust bare-root crowns or plugs, as long as the last frost has passed.
What should I do if I'm in a cold pocket of Colorado?
If you're in a cooler area, consider planting later in the season to ensure frost has passed. Early June could be suitable for some varieties, especially in elevated locations.
Is it possible to grow strawberries from seed in Colorado?
Technically yes, but for practical home gardening, it's better to buy bare-root crowns or plugs. Seeds may not yield reliable results in Colorado's varied climates.
How do I manage runners for better yields?
Once your plants start sending out runners, remove them during the first year to encourage better root growth. Afterward, allow runners to fill in the bed for a productive mat.
Can I grow ever-bearing strawberries in Colorado?
Absolutely! Everbearing varieties adapt well in Colorado, providing continuous fruit from spring to fall with proper care and attention to their planting needs.