When and How to Irrigate Strawberries

How much water do the strawberries need?

Though strawberries are relatively drought-tolerant, sufficient and regular watering is beneficial to help plants reach their full potential and produce high quality fruits, especially given their shallow root systems and high water demand of the plants.

Water Requirements of Strawberry Plants

Due to the relatively shallow root system of the plant and its high water demand, the farmer needs to irrigate and keep the upper 254-304 mm or 10-12 in of soil (root zone) moist, especially during dry periods and critical developmental stages. In general, strawberries require at least 1 inch (25 mm) of water per week for survival and minimal productivity. However, for optimum yield and berry size, strawberries may need up to 2 inches (51 mm) of water per week during peak growing stages, especially under high temperatures.

Key Irrigation Periods:

Crop Establishment: Adequate moisture is crucial immediately after seeding or transplanting to ensure good root establishment. This stage sets the foundation for a productive crop.
Flowering: During the flowering stage, consistent watering supports pollination and fruit set, helping to maximize yield potential.
Fruit Development: This is the most water-sensitive period for strawberries. As the temperature rises during fruit development, the plant's transpiration rate can increase significantly, leading to a water requirement of up to 2 inches (51 mm) per week. Growers may need to irrigate every 2–3 days in sandy soils and every 4–5 days in heavier soils, applying about 3–8 inches (80–200 mm) of water each time, depending on soil and environmental conditions.
Post-Harvest: For perennial strawberries, keeping the soil moist after harvest helps support plant health and prepares the plants for the next season. It is also beneficial during the renovation phase (for June-bearing varieties) when plants produce new runners and renew energy reserves. Finally, providing moisture before covering the plants for winter helps maintain their vitality through cold weather.

When planning an irrigation schedule, growers should also take rainfall into account to adjust water applications accordingly.

How to Irrigate Strawberries – Irrigation Systems for Strawberries

Selecting the right irrigation system for strawberries depends on the variety, the chosen cultivation system, and the grower's specific needs. The two primary methods are drip irrigation and sprinkler irrigation. While in June-bearing strawberries, both systems can easily be used, the drip-irrigation may work better in day-neutral varieties.

1. Drip Irrigation

Drip irrigation is a highly efficient method that delivers water directly to the plant's root zone. It’s ideal for both June-bearing and day-neutral varieties, though day-neutral types, with their shallower root systems, benefit particularly from the targeted water delivery that drip irrigation provides.

For drip irrigation, growers typically place one or two lines of drip irrigation hose per plant row, with drippers about 2 inches (5 cm) from the plant base. To ensure proper setup and operation, growers should consult an experienced specialist.

Drip systems are best suited for annual systems, and growers usually replace the drip tape yearly to ensure effective water distribution and prevent clogging.

2. Sprinkler Irrigation

Sprinkler systems distribute water across a large area, making them a viable option for strawberry beds. This system is useful during the early growth stages and for fields that require frost protection.

Sprinkler systems for strawberries typically include vertical pipes around 2–3 feet (60–90 cm) tall, with sprinkler heads at the top to emit water in a circular pattern. About 69 sprinkler heads per hectare (28 per acre) provide adequate coverage.

Overhead irrigation can protect the plants from frost. To successfully protect the plants from low temperatures, the farmer should open the sprinklers before the temperature at the canopy level drops below 0°C (32 °F) and apply 2.5-3.8 mm (0.10-1.15 in) of water per hour as long as these conditions last.

To prevent fungal diseases, it’s best to irrigate early in the morning, allowing plant foliage to dry during the day.

3. Furrow and Flood Irrigation

These traditional methods are generally not recommended for strawberries. Furrow and flood irrigation can cause waterlogging, to which strawberries are sensitive, and increase the spread of soil-borne pathogens. These systems are also less efficient in terms of water use.

Tips for Efficient Strawberry Irrigation

Soil Moisture Monitoring: Soil moisture sensors or manual soil checks help prevent over- and under-watering. You are advised to maintain consistent moisture levels in the root zone to ensure optimal plant growth.
Mulch: Applying organic or synthetic mulch helps retain soil moisture, reduce weed competition, and regulate soil temperature, lowering the need for frequent watering.
Soil Type & Timing: Sandy soils drain quickly and may require more frequent irrigation than heavier soils. Organic matter can help improve the water-holding capacity of lighter soils. It is best, especially during warm summer months, to irrigate early in the morning to avoid water losses due to evaporation.

Conclusion

Effective water management is key to successful strawberry cultivation. By understanding the plant's water needs and selecting a suitable irrigation system, growers can maintain healthy plants and achieve high-quality fruits. Drip irrigation is typically the most efficient choice, while sprinkler irrigation is useful in specific situations. Tailoring the irrigation schedule to the plant's growth stages and environmental conditions can enhance water use efficiency and contribute to a sustainable strawberry production system.

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