June-Bearing vs Everbearing Strawberries

Of all the fruits that can be grown in a home garden, strawberries are one of the most popular. They’re relatively easy to grow, and with the right conditions, they can produce an abundance of sweet, juicy berries. There are two main types of strawberry plants: June-bearing and ever-bearing. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between June-bearing and everbearing strawberries.

(Featured Image: Strawberries by Ewan Traveler)

While both June-bearing and everbearing strawberries have multiple cultivars of each type, there are some key features look out for when choosing what type to grow. Strawberries grow successfully in Northern Michigan as it is, and understanding the variety you choose can help you maximize your berry yield when it’s time to harvest.

June-bearing strawberries, also known as “spring-bearing” strawberries, are so called because they produce one large crop of berries in late spring or early summer, usually in June. After the crop is harvested, the plant will produce some runners, or daughter plants, which will grow into new strawberry plants. These daughter plants will bear fruit the following year.

June-bearing strawberries are typically grown in colder climates, where they can benefit from a period of dormancy during the winter. They require a certain amount of cold weather in order to produce a large crop of fruit. In the fall, the plants should be covered with mulch to protect them from freezing temperatures.

One of the advantages of growing June-bearing strawberries is that they tend to produce larger berries than ever-bearing strawberries. This is because they channel all of their energy into producing one large crop. June-bearing strawberries are also known for their intense flavor, and are often preferred by strawberry connoisseurs for their sweetness and tartness.

Ever-bearing strawberries, also known as “day-neutral” strawberries, are so called because they can produce fruit continuously throughout the growing season, from spring until fall. Unlike June-bearing strawberries, they don’t require a period of dormancy, and can be grown in warmer climates. They can also be grown as annuals in colder climates.

Ever-bearing strawberries are typically smaller than June-bearing strawberries, and may not be as intensely flavored. However, they have the advantage of producing a longer season of fruit, which can be useful for those who want a steady supply of fresh berries throughout the summer and into the fall.

One of the key benefits of ever-bearing strawberries is that they don’t produce runners as aggressively as June-bearing strawberries. This means that they require less maintenance and can be grown in smaller spaces, such as containers or raised beds.

The choice between June-bearing and ever-bearing strawberries largely depends on your personal preferences and your climate. If you live in a colder climate and want to produce a large crop of intensely flavored berries, then June-bearing strawberries may be the best choice for you. If you live in a warmer climate or want a longer season of fruit, then ever-bearing strawberries may be a better choice.

It’s worth noting that some gardeners choose to grow both types of strawberries in order to get the best of both worlds. They may plant June-bearing strawberries for their large, flavorful berries, and ever-bearing strawberries for a steady supply of fruit throughout the summer.

No matter which type of strawberry you choose, there are a few tips that can help you grow healthy, productive plants:

1. Choose a sunny location with well-draining soil.
2. Prepare the soil by adding compost and other organic matter.
3. Plant the strawberries in the spring or fall.
4. Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
5. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
6. Mulch the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
7. Protect the plants from pests, such as slugs and birds, with netting or other deterrents.

By following these tips, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy strawberries, whether you choose June-bearing or ever-bearing varieties.

Bright Lane Gardens is your one stop shop for everything you’ll need to get your strawberry patch started this summer. Whether you’re looking for June-bearing or everbearing strawberries, organic compost, soil, or fertilizer – this plant nursery has you covered!

Located just 20 minutes west of Traverse City in the town of Lake Ann, Michigan, Bright Lane Gardens is proud to serve Benzie County, the Leelanau Peninsula, and beyond! If you’re from out of town, we would love to show you around our boutique plant nursery and gift shop.

Bright Lane Gardens also carries a wide variety of native plants and shrubs, berry bushes, fruit trees, and vegetable starts! Check out the garden shop for every tool you’ll need to get the job done. We look forward to helping you get started on your strawberry patch!