How to Plant Atlas Strawberries

Overview

Atlas strawberries are a variety that have been improved to produce higher yields than other strawberry varieties. These strawberries also produce fruit that is larger and firmer. To achieve the best results, strawberries should not be planted until soil temperature is at least 60 degrees Farenheit, usually in late spring. Choose a sunny location to grow strawberries. Till and amend the soil to give plants their best start.

Step 1

Soak the roots of strawberry plants in a shallow container for one hour before planting.

Step 2

Dig into the soil with a rototiller or rake to loosen the soil. Using a rototiller, allow the tines to dig into the soil until you reach 12 to 15 inches deep. If you use a rake, you also need to break up the soil to a depth of 12 to 15 inches.

Step 3

Till the soil, working in rows, moving in a straight line. When finished with one row, turn and work towards the other end.

Step 4

Hand-sort the soil to remove rocks and weeds.

Step 5

Dump bags of compost or manure into a wheelbarrow.

Step 6

Shovel a 2- to 4-inch layer of manure or compost on top of the soil. Remove these amendments from the wheelbarrow with a shovel and place them on top of the soil.

Step 7

Till the soil, incorporating the manure or compost, working in rows until all manure and compost in tilled in.

Step 8

Rake the garden area by dragging a rake back and forth until the soil is level.

Step 9

Water the soil until well saturated.

Step 10

Dig holes for the strawberry plants just deep enough to cover the roots of the plants. Space the holes 18 inches apart with rows spaced 3 feet apart.

Step 11

Set the strawberry plants in the holes. The crowns, or base, of the plant should be level with the soil surface. Pack soil lightly around the plants.

Step 12

Water the soil around the new planting until it is saturated. Water plants whenever the soil is dry and warm to the touch.