Planting

• About two to three weeks before planting, work 1 to 2 lb. of fertilizer into the top 6 inches of soil. A 10-10-10 fertilizer provides equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium and gives the plants adequate nutrients through the first harvest. However, large amounts of phosphorus and potassium are needed for high fruit production; therefore, Bruce Bordelon from the Purdue University Cooperative Extension recommends using a 6-24-24 fertilizer for a bountiful harvest.
  
  

Top Dressing

• Many strawberry species produce fruit multiple times in a season. After the first harvest, the plants need more nutrients to continue producing fruit. Top or side dress strawberry plants with a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer, using about 1 lb. per 50 square feet. Apply the fertilizer while the plants are dry to avoid damage to the foliage, sweeping off any excess that landed on the leaves. Then water the fertilizer to allow it to seep down to the roots.
  
  

Compost

• Strawberries thrive in soil that contains large amounts of organic material. Before planting, turn compost, peat moss, composted manure or a combination of these into the soil. If you are using home-prepared compost or manure instead of a commercially bagged version found at the local garden center, be sure all components have completely broken down. Pieces of kitchen waste that haven't fully decomposed may invite unwanted pests into your garden. Also, animal manures must sit for several weeks to be sure that any pathogens have died, preventing cross-contamination.
  
  

Overfertilizing

• While proper fertilization of strawberries promotes healthy plants with high fruit yields, overfertilization causes too much foliage growth and low fruit production. Overfertilizing can also result in excessive damage over winter. To ensure that you are using the right amount of fertilizer, take a soil sample to your local cooperative extension for testing before applying any plant food.