Bare Root Strawberries vs Strawberry Plant Plugs: Which Is Better?

When it comes to planting strawberries, the choices can feel endless. Not only do you need to pick between June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral varieties, but you also have to choose from nearly 600 different strawberry species and cultivars available worldwide. And then comes the ultimate decision: How will you establish your strawberry patch? Bare-root crowns and plant plugs are two of the most popular options for strawberry propagation. But which one is the best fit for your garden?

This is a common dilemma for both beginner gardeners and seasoned horticulturists. Bare-root strawberries are dormant plants with exposed roots and minimal to no green growth, while plant plugs are young seedlings that come pre-rooted in soil-filled trays, ready to be planted. Both options have their advantages, but they differ in cost, growth speed, availability, and planting methods. Choosing between bare-root strawberries and plant plugs can significantly impact the growth and yield of your strawberry plants.

In this guide, we’ll explore both options in-depth to help you make an informed decision on which method is best for your garden.

Table of Contents

What Are Bare Root Strawberries?

Before diving into the comparison, let’s first define what bare root strawberries are. Bare root strawberries are strawberry plants that are sold without soil around their roots. These plants are typically dormant when you purchase them, which means they are not actively growing. Bare root strawberries are often shipped in a dormant state, which makes them easier to transport.

Pros of Bare Root Strawberries:

Cost-Effective: Bare root strawberries are typically cheaper than plant plugs. This is a great option if you’re on a budget and looking to plant a large strawberry patch.
Variety: There are many different varieties of bare root strawberries available, giving you a broad selection to choose from. Whether you’re looking for June-bearing, ever-bearing, or day-neutral strawberries, bare roots can offer diverse options.
Adaptability: Bare root strawberries tend to adapt well to various soil types and climates, making them a good choice for gardeners across the United States.

Cons of Bare Root Strawberries:

Longer Establishment Period: Because they are dormant, bare root strawberries take a bit longer to establish themselves compared to plant plugs. This means you might have to wait a bit longer to see your first harvest.
Vulnerability: Bare roots are more susceptible to drying out if not planted quickly. If the plants are left exposed for too long, they can easily lose moisture and fail to grow.

What Are Strawberry Plant Plugs?

Strawberry plant plugs are young strawberry plants that are already rooted in soil, typically grown in a nursery before being sold. These plants are usually sold in small pots or trays, and their roots are well-established by the time they are ready to be planted in your garden.

Pros of Strawberry Plant Plugs:

Faster Growth: Since plant plugs are already rooted and growing, they tend to establish themselves faster in the garden compared to bare root plants. This means you might see fruits sooner.
Convenience: Strawberry plugs are often easier to handle than bare roots, especially for beginner gardeners. With the roots already developed, you don’t need to worry as much about planting them carefully to avoid damage.
Healthier Plants: Because they are already growing, plant plugs tend to be healthier and less prone to disease compared to bare root strawberries. This makes them a solid choice if you’re worried about plant health.

Cons of Strawberry Plant Plugs:

Higher Cost: Strawberry plant plugs are usually more expensive than bare root strawberries. This can be a disadvantage if you’re planting a large number of plants.
Limited Variety: Unlike bare root strawberries, which come in a wide range of varieties, plant plugs may not offer as many options, especially if you’re looking for specific types of strawberries.

Bare Root Strawberries vs Strawberry Plant Plugs

Now that we’ve discussed the pros and cons of both bare root strawberries and plant plugs, let’s compare them in more detail. This will help you understand which planting method works best for your specific needs.

Cost Considerations:

Bare Root Strawberries: As mentioned earlier, bare root strawberries are generally more affordable. If you’re planting a larger strawberry patch and want to save money, bare roots are an excellent choice.
Plant Plugs: Although plant plugs come at a higher price point, they often result in a quicker yield, meaning you could harvest strawberries sooner, which might justify the extra cost for some gardeners.

Ease of Planting:

Bare Root Strawberries: Planting bare roots can be more challenging, especially for beginners. You’ll need to plant them quickly to avoid the roots drying out, and it’s crucial to make sure they’re positioned correctly in the soil.
Plant Plugs: Plant plugs are easier to plant because the roots are already established. You simply need to place them in the soil, making them a better option for gardeners who may not have much experience.

Growth and Harvesting:

Bare Root Strawberries: While bare root strawberries take longer to establish, they tend to produce high-quality fruit once they’ve settled in. The tradeoff is that you’ll need to be patient before your plants start producing strawberries.
Plant Plugs: Since plant plugs are already established, you’ll see faster growth and can harvest fruit earlier. However, the plants might not be as strong as bare roots in the long term.

Lifespan and Sustainability:

Bare Root Strawberries: Bare root strawberries tend to last longer in the garden, especially when well cared for. They have a strong root system that supports long-term sustainability.
Plant Plugs: Plant plugs can offer a quicker turnaround, but they might not be as durable or sustainable over the long term as bare root strawberries. They can also be more susceptible to diseases, especially if not planted properly.

Which Is Better for Your Garden?

So, which option is better for you? Here are a few things to consider when making your decision:

Climate: If you’re planting in a colder region, bare root strawberries may be more adaptable to the varying weather conditions. However, if you’re in a warmer climate, plant plugs might establish faster and produce fruit sooner.
Space: For gardeners with limited space, plant plugs can offer a quicker harvest, which means you can enjoy fresh strawberries sooner. Bare root strawberries may require more space to establish their roots, but they can provide a long-term solution for larger gardens.
Budget: If you’re on a tight budget, bare root strawberries are a more affordable choice, especially if you’re planting a large strawberry patch. Plant plugs, on the other hand, may be more suitable if you’re willing to invest a little extra for quicker results.

Strawberry Care Tips

Here are some essential tips to help you establish a thriving strawberry patch:

Rehydrate bare-root plants by soaking the roots in a diluted kelp solution before planting to promote faster recovery.
Opt for day-neutral varieties if you want to enjoy fruit in the very first year.
For annual strawberry growing, refresh your patch each season by planting new crowns or plugs.
For a perennial strawberry patch, ensure you maintain regular mulching and pruning to keep plants healthy year after year.
Remove runners regularly, as these long stems divert energy from fruit production, slowing down yields.
Amend the soil with plenty of compost to improve drainage and enrich the soil with organic matter.
Plant strawberries on raised mounds to improve water drainage and prevent root rot.
Never bury the crown of the strawberry plant, as this can cause the entire plant to rot.
Space your plants 8-12 inches apart to ensure adequate airflow, reducing the risk of disease and promoting healthy growth.

By following these tips, you’ll give your strawberry plants the best possible start, ensuring a bountiful harvest season after season.

Conclusion

Both bare root strawberries and plant plugs have their advantages and drawbacks. Ultimately, the choice depends on your specific needs, experience level, and goals for your strawberry garden. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option that will thrive in your garden for years to come, bare root strawberries might be your best bet. However, if you want faster growth and an easier planting experience, strawberry plant plugs may be the way to go.

Regardless of which option you choose, remember that proper care and maintenance are essential for a successful strawberry harvest. Happy gardening!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I plant bare root strawberries in pots?
Yes, bare root strawberries can be planted in pots. Just ensure the pot is large enough to accommodate the roots and provide proper drainage.

2. How long does it take for strawberry plants to produce fruit?
Strawberry plants usually take 3-4 months to start producing fruit, but this can vary depending on whether you use bare roots or plant plugs.

3. Are strawberry plant plugs more expensive than bare roots?
Yes, strawberry plant plugs are typically more expensive than bare-root strawberries. However, they offer faster growth and earlier yields.

4. Which strawberry variety is best for planting from plugs or bare roots?
The best variety depends on your climate and preferences. June-bearing strawberries are popular for both planting methods, but ever-bearing and day-neutral varieties can also be grown successfully from both bare roots and plant plugs.