Encourage Runners for Free Plants Strawberries naturally produce runners—long stems that grow from the main plant and develop new baby plants. Instead of cutting them off, guide them to take root in soil or small pots.
Divide Mature Strawberry Plants If your strawberry plants are a couple of years old, they may have developed multiple crowns. Gently dig up the plant, separate the crowns with their roots attached, and replant them in a new spot for more strawberries.
Optimize Soil and Nutrition Healthy plants produce more runners and fruit. Ensure your strawberry patch has well-draining, nutrient-rich soil with compost or aged manure. Use organic fertilizers rich in potassium and phosphorus to encourage strong growth.
Remove Old or Weak Plants Older strawberry plants (over three years old) produce fewer fruits and take up space. Remove weaker plants and replace them with new ones grown from runners to keep your patch productive.
Protect and Mulch for Better Growth Strawberries love moisture but hate weeds. Use straw, wood chips, or pine needles around the plants to retain moisture, reduce weeds, and protect the roots. Healthy plants are more likely to send out runners.
Use Vertical or Container Growing If space is limited, train runners to grow in hanging baskets or containers. This method increases production in small areas while keeping pests away. Plus, it makes harvesting easier!