British gardeners are being urged to capitalise on an exceptional strawberry season by planting now for an even better harvest next year. The perfect combination of weather conditions throughout 2025 has resulted in what experts are calling one of the best strawberry growing years in recent memory.
Why 2025 Proved Perfect for Strawberries
The remarkable success of this year's strawberry crop can be attributed to specific weather patterns that created ideal growing conditions. A cold winter followed by a warm, wet spring provided the perfect foundation for strong plant development and fruit production.
Unlike previous years where late frosts or unexpected heatwaves damaged crops, 2025 delivered consistent conditions that allowed strawberries to thrive. The gradual warming through spring and adequate rainfall meant plants established strong root systems before the main growing season began.
Gardeners across the UK have reported exceptionally sweet and abundant harvests, with many varieties producing fruit over an extended period. The quality has been consistently high, with berries showing excellent colour development and flavour intensity.
Autumn Planting for 2026 Success
Now is the perfect time to plant strawberries for next year's crop, according to horticultural experts. Autumn planting allows plants to establish strong root systems before winter, giving them a significant head start for the following growing season.
Plants put in the ground between September and November will develop robust root networks that can access deeper soil moisture and nutrients. This early establishment means they're ready to burst into growth as soon as temperatures rise in spring, rather than wasting energy on root development.
The key advantage of autumn planting is that plants will produce a much earlier and often larger crop next summer. They're also better equipped to handle any dry spells or challenging conditions because of their well-established root systems.
Choosing the Right Varieties and Planting Techniques
Gardeners have numerous excellent strawberry varieties to choose from, each with different characteristics. Popular choices include 'Elsanta' for its reliable cropping and good flavour, 'Cambridge Favourite' for its hardiness, and 'Malling Centenary' for its exceptional taste.
For those looking to extend their harvesting season, consider planting a mix of early, mid-season, and late varieties. Perpetual or everbearing types like 'Mara des Bois' can provide fruits from early summer right through to autumn.
When planting, ensure you choose a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Incorporate plenty of organic matter like garden compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil structure and fertility. Space plants about 30-45cm apart to allow for good air circulation and room for growth.
After planting, apply a thick mulch of straw or similar material around the plants to suppress weeds, conserve moisture, and keep the developing fruits clean and free from soil splash.
With the right preparation and timing, gardeners can look forward to building on this year's strawberry success. The perfect conditions of 2025 may be difficult to replicate, but with careful planning and autumn planting, 2026 could deliver another outstanding harvest for British strawberry enthusiasts.
