Strawberry is commercially propagated by runner plants or by tissue culture for large scale propagation of virus free plants. The ideal planting time in hilly areas is September-October. Strawberries grown from seed take 160-210 days to fruit. In the north, strawberries get started indoors in February and transplanted outside in April/May.
There are factors affecting berry farm profitability. Berry farmers report losses in the first years, then profits between $1.3-$2.8 million. Growing strawberry plants commercially can be profitable but involves time and equipment expenses. To grow organic strawberries, maintain nitrogen levels using organic fertilizers like blood, fish, soy or alfalfa meal.
Organic strawberry growers don’t use fumigants or synthetic pesticides. Conventional growers fumigate soil before planting starts.
When mature, strawberry seeds can be harvested for eating. On large farms, strawberries grow and ripen quickly needing daily harvesting. Strawberries can be grown hydroponically. This method has benefits like higher yields. Strawberry varieties should suit location and required harvest time. Kennco manufactures equipment for commercial strawberry farming for 45 years, making it faster and cheaper. Strawberries can be harvested 4-6 weeks after blossoming.
California strawberry plants are nursery grown then transplanted into raised beds with plastic mulch to keep berries off soil and conserve water. Strawberries are hand harvested into clamshells in the field. They are best when three-quarters red. Strawberries grow on over 60,000 acres in the United States. Fresh market strawberries sell for $1.60 per pound, processed strawberries for $0.30 per pound. Total income per acre is $21,440. Main production systems are hill and matted-row, needing different planting densities and cultivation.
There are two types of strawberries used in cold climate commercial production: June-bearing and day-neutral with different management requirements and harvest times. Hydroponic systems use a growth medium like coconut coir instead of soil. Typically grown as annuals: removed and replaced every year.
Irrigation maximizes plant growth and yield by ensuring adequate moisture. Use fertilizer guidelines for new and production year plantings. Diseases and insects must be controlled. Color determines ripeness for harvesting. Steps include box formation and picking into clamshells in the field. Common preservation is strawberry jam.