Ages 18-24? Explore Prime for Young Adults and see if you are eligible

If you are looking to expand your home garden with delicious homegrown fruit, learning how to plant strawberries bare root is a smart place to start. Bare root strawberry plants are dormant, ready to establish quickly once planted, and often more affordable than potted plants. In this 2026 guide, we will walk through the basics of planting bare root strawberries, what to look for when choosing varieties, and how to set your plants up for strong growth. Whether you are working with a backyard patch, raised beds, or patio containers, the key steps remain the same: proper soil preparation, correct planting depth, and consistent watering.

Many gardeners find that starting with bare root strawberries gives them a head start on the growing season. However, common mistakes like planting too deep or letting the roots dry out can lead to poor results. That is why we have gathered 8 popular bare root strawberry options to compare, including everbearing and June-bearing varieties. For more general plant care advice, visit our plant category page.

1
Prime Best Seller

BigBloom Strawberry Plants

CZGrain
9.3 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These BigBloom bare root plants from CZGrain offer a promising start for home gardeners who want to grow large, juicy strawberries. They sprout fast and are easy to maintain, though some plants may be less vigorous than others.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Sprouts quickly – some even begin germinating in the package.
  • Easy to plant and maintain with included growing guide.
  • Perennial nature means you'll have strawberries for years.
  • Suitable for small spaces like containers and patios.
  • Non-GMO and quality tested for healthy growth.

Cons

  • Some plants may be weak or produce only first-year suckers instead of fruit.
  • Performance varies with local climate; may struggle in extreme cold or heat.
  • Requires patience – heavy fruiting often takes a full growing season to establish.
Detailed Review

The BigBloom Strawberry Plants from CZGrain are a practical choice for home gardeners who want to grow their own oversized strawberries. This package contains 10 bare root plants, which are dormant roots ready to wake up in your garden. The promise of giant, juicy fruit is appealing for anyone looking to make jams, pies, or just snack fresh from the vine.

One of the standout features is how quickly these plants can start growing. Reviews note that some roots sprout even before being planted, which speaks to their vitality. The plants are easy to establish with the included guide and video tutorial, and they thrive in partial sun, making them suitable for gardens, containers, or patios. They are perennials, so you only need to plant once and you'll get harvests for years.

However, the real-world performance has some variability. While many buyers report strong growth and quick sprouting, a few note that some plants arrived weak or turned out to be first-year suckers that won't fruit until later. This seems common with bare root products. Additionally, the plants may struggle in very cold or very hot climates, as one reviewer in Arizona noted slow growth during cold weather.

On the plus side, the plants are non-GMO and backed by a satisfaction guarantee, which adds confidence. The price point is reasonable for 10 plants, especially considering their perennial nature. For best results, plant in well-draining soil and give them time to establish before expecting a heavy crop.

Overall, the BigBloom Strawberry Plants are a solid entry-level option for gardeners who want to try growing large strawberries. They offer good value and quick results, but be prepared for some individual plant variation. With proper care and patience, you'll likely enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, giant berries.

2
Prime Editor's Pick

Hand Picked Nursery San Andreas Everbearing Bare

HandPickedNursery
9.9 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These San Andreas bare root strawberry plants from Hand Picked Nursery are a top choice for home gardeners who want large, sweet berries all season long. They're heat tolerant, disease resistant, and thrive in garden beds, raised beds, or containers.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High yields of large, flavorful berries throughout the growing season
  • Exceptional heat tolerance and low chill requirement for hot climates
  • Strong disease resistance reduces maintenance and chemical use
  • Versatile planting options in ground, raised beds, or containers
  • Customers consistently praise the health and vigor of the bare root plants

Cons

  • Bare root plants need immediate attention upon arrival, like soaking and planting within a day or two
  • As with any bare root stock, a few plants may be smaller than others, but reviews suggest they still grow well
  • Not a June-bearing variety, so you won't get one massive crop but rather steady, smaller harvests
Detailed Review

If you're looking for a strawberry variety that keeps on giving, the San Andreas everbearing bare root plants from Hand Picked Nursery are a solid bet. This variety is known for producing large, firm, and sweet berries from spring well into fall, making it a favorite for home gardeners who want a steady supply of fresh fruit. Whether you have a dedicated garden bed, a few raised beds, or just some containers on a patio, these plants adapt easily and deliver consistent results.

The standout feature here is the San Andreas' ability to perform in both cold and hot climates. With a low chill hour requirement and strong heat tolerance, it's a reliable choice for growers in warmer regions where other strawberries might struggle. Plus, the built-in resistance to common diseases like red stele and verticillium wilt means you can spend more time enjoying your harvest and less time worrying about plant health. Each order comes with 10 bare root plants that arrive with healthy roots and often green stems, as noted in multiple customer reviews. Many buyers reported seeing new growth within a week of planting, which speaks to the quality of the stock.

Design and build quality are exactly what you'd expect from a reputable nursery. The bare roots are well-packed and ready to go, though you'll want to soak them for about 30 minutes before planting to give them the best start. The included instructions are straightforward, making this a great option even for beginner gardeners. While bare root plants do require a bit of timing and care upon arrival, the payoff is a strong, productive patch that keeps producing month after month.

There are a few honest drawbacks to consider. First, because these are bare root, you need to plant them soon after receiving them, so plan your schedule accordingly. Second, while the vast majority of plants are robust, a small one might sneak in, but reviewers consistently note that even the smaller ones grow well. Finally, as an everbearing variety, you won't get one huge harvest like with June-bearing types, but the trade-off is a longer season of fresh berries.

Overall, the Hand Picked Nursery San Andreas strawberry plants offer excellent value for anyone serious about growing their own fruit. They combine high yields, disease resistance, and climate adaptability in a package that's proven to satisfy. If you want a reliable, productive strawberry patch that delivers large, delicious berries from spring to fall, this is a smart buy.

3
Prime Limited Time

Pri Gardens Seascape Everbearing Strawberry Bare

Pri Gardens
9.6 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
The Pri Gardens Seascape Everbearing Strawberry bare roots deliver large, juicy berries with excellent flavor and keep producing all season. Ideal for gardeners in USDA zones 4-7 and container growers looking for a reliable, heat-tolerant variety.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High productivity with exceptional flavor that stands out from store-bought berries.
  • Heat tolerant, so it keeps producing even during summer heat waves.
  • Grows well in containers and is a favorite for hydroponic systems.
  • Strong germination rate and healthy plants right out of the package.
  • Versatile for a wide range of climates from Hawaii to Canada.

Cons

  • Bare roots need to be planted promptly upon arrival to prevent drying out.
  • May require protection from birds and squirrels once berries ripen outdoors.
  • Some users noted that improper soil pH or nutrient balance can cause leaves to shrivel; attention to soil conditions is needed.
Detailed Review

The Pri Gardens Seascape Everbearing Strawberry bare roots are a solid choice for anyone who wants fresh, homegrown strawberries throughout the growing season. This everbearing variety produces large, firm, and juicy berries with a flavor that easily beats what you find at the grocery store. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out, these plants are forgiving and productive, especially if you give them full sun and moderate water.

What sets the Seascape apart is its heat tolerance. Many strawberry varieties shut down when temperatures climb, but this one keeps flowering and fruiting. Gardeners from Hawaii to Canada have had success with it. The shallow root system also makes it a natural fit for containers, raised beds, and even hydroponic setups. Real-world feedback from buyers shows that these bare roots germinate reliably and grow into strong plants. One reviewer successfully grew them both outdoors with companion chives and indoors in an aerogarden, reporting excellent results in both environments.

Design and build quality are straightforward but effective. The bare roots arrive moist and well-packed, with uncut roots that help the plants establish quickly. Most users reported seeing growth within days and flowers within weeks. The plants are non-GMO and hardy in USDA zones 4-7, so they can handle cold winters and come back the next year. However, they do require prompt planting upon arrival to prevent the roots from drying out.

There are a few downsides to keep in mind. Outdoor plants may attract birds or squirrels that love ripe berries as much as you do, so netting or other protection might be necessary. Some users also noted that leaves can shrivel if soil pH or nitrogen levels are off, so paying attention to your soil mix is important. But overall, the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many buyers planning to purchase again.

Final verdict: The Pri Gardens Seascape Everbearing Strawberry bare roots offer great value for the price. They are productive, flavorful, and adaptable to different growing methods. If you want a steady supply of delicious strawberries from spring to fall and are willing to give them a little care, these plants are a reliable choice.

4
Prime Top Rated

CZGrain Seascape Strawberry Plants Bare Root 5

CZGrain
9.3 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These Seascape strawberry bare root plants from CZGrain are easy to grow and produce heavy yields, especially in containers or planters. While some plants may arrive with imperfections, most customers reported successful growth and delicious fruit.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Great flavor and heavy production from healthy plants.
  • Ideal for container gardening with limited space.
  • Day neutral type provides longer harvest period.
  • Most plants arrive viable and sprout new growth quickly.
  • Cost effective compared to potted plants.

Cons

  • Some plants may arrive small or dead; quality control can be inconsistent.
  • Order quantity may not match what you paid for; a few customers received fewer plants than ordered.
  • Bare root requires careful handling and immediate planting upon arrival.
Detailed Review

The CZGrain Seascape Strawberry Plants are a bare root set of five day neutral plants designed for high yields and easy container growing. They are marketed as a heavy producer with a shallow root system that makes them ideal for planters, patios, or raised beds. This product is especially suited for home gardeners with limited space who want a continuous supply of fresh strawberries throughout the growing season.

In terms of real world performance, most customers report that the plants sprout new leaves within a few days of planting and go on to produce plenty of tasty strawberries. Several reviewers mention that the berries had excellent flavor. The day neutral trait means you can expect fruit from late spring through fall, not just one short window. However, some plants arrive in rough shape a few were dead or very small. A couple of buyers also noted that the count was off (e.g., ordering 15 but receiving only 11). These issues reduce overall consistency, but the majority of plants that survive and establish themselves seem to perform well.

The build quality here is the bare root format itself. The plants come packed in a way that minimizes damage during shipping, but they are dormant and need to be soaked in water for about 30 minutes before planting. The shallow root system is a genuine advantage for container use, but it also means the plants need consistent watering and well draining soil. There is no pot or soil included, so you will need to supply your own planter and potting mix.

As for drawbacks, the main concerns are the occasional dead or missing plants. If you are someone who expects every single plant to be perfect on arrival, you might be disappointed. Also, because these are bare root, they are more sensitive to drying out and require immediate attention. Price wise, they are affordable, but the value depends on getting a full viable set.

Verdict: The CZGrain Seascape Strawberry Plants are a solid option for container gardeners who want a continuous harvest of good tasting strawberries. The day neutral trait and shallow roots are legitimate benefits. Just be prepared for possible variability in plant condition, and order a few extras if you want to guarantee a full patch. For the price and potential yield, these are worth trying if you have a sunny spot and a pot ready.

5
Prime

Ozark Beauty Strawberry Plants

CZGrain
9.3 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These are bare root Ozark Beauty strawberry plants, an everbearing variety that produces sweet fruit all season. Ideal for gardeners who want a reliable, high-yielding patch, but be aware they arrive as dormant roots not potted plants.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High yield potential from a single planting, with fruit over several months.
  • Easy to grow for beginners, with clear instructions and video tutorial included.
  • Excellent customer service from CZ Grain, responsive and helpful with replacements.
  • Perennial nature means you harvest for years without replanting.
  • Bare root format is cost-effective and ships easily without heavy soil.

Cons

  • Arrives as dormant bare roots, not potted live plants, which may surprise some buyers.
  • Quality can be inconsistent; some batches arrive dry or with minimal growth signs.
  • Requires careful planting (soaking roots, not burying crown) to avoid rot and ensure success.
Detailed Review

The Ozark Beauty Strawberry Plants from CZ Grain are a popular choice for home gardeners looking to grow their own sweet fruit. This everbearing variety produces strawberries from late spring through fall, making it a reliable addition to any backyard or container garden. The package contains five bare root plants, which are dormant roots rather than pre-potted plants, a detail that has caused some confusion among buyers.

One of the standout features is the plant's productivity. Ozark Beauty is known for its high yields, and many reviewers report seeing new growth within a week after planting. The included instructions, both paper and video, guide you through the process: soak the roots for a couple of hours, then plant with the crown above the soil. Once established, these perennials come back year after year, saving you the trouble of replanting. Customer service from CZ Grain also gets high marks, with several users noting quick replacements when plants arrived in poor condition.

However, the bare root format is a double-edged sword. While it keeps shipping costs low and allows the roots to be inspected, some customers expected fully potted live plants. A few reviews mention that the roots looked dry or lifeless upon arrival, though many of those still sprouted after proper care. There is also occasional inconsistency: some batches are lush and vigorous, while others require more patience. The key is to follow the planting instructions closely and give them a few days to wake up.

In terms of design and build quality, the packaging is functional but basic. The roots are shipped in a small bag with minimal protection, which can lead to damage during transit. Still, most customers report that the majority of plants survive and thrive. For the price, you get a solid value, especially since many buyers receive extra plants beyond the advertised five.

Overall, the Ozark Beauty Strawberry Plants are a worthwhile investment for anyone wanting a continuous supply of fresh strawberries. They are easy to grow, backed by good support, and deliver sweet fruit for years. Just be prepared for bare roots and follow the instructions. With a little patience, you will be enjoying homemade strawberry shortcake in no time.

6
Prime

Gurney's Whopper Strawberry Plants: 10 Bare Root

GURNEYS
9.1 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
Gurney's Whopper Strawberry Plants promise some of the largest strawberries you'll find, with berries up to peach size and exceptional sweetness. They're best for home gardeners in zones 5-10, though some users experienced plant die-off.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Exceptionally large and sweet berries
  • Hardy and cold-tolerant in zones 5-10
  • Prolific yield once established
  • Positive customer service replacement policy
  • Can be used as ornamental ground cover

Cons

  • Some plants may not survive despite healthy appearance
  • Mixed germination rates reported by customers
  • Relatively high price per plant given potential losses
Detailed Review

Gurney's Whopper Strawberry Plants are a bare-root offering that aims to deliver one of the largest strawberries you can grow at home. The variety, Fragaria ananassa 'Cabot', is known for producing berries that can reach the size of a peach, with a sweet and juicy flavor that many gardeners report surpasses standard store-bought strawberries. This pack includes 10 bare root plants, making it a convenient way to start a home patch.

What really sets these plants apart is their vigor and hardiness. According to Gurney's, they thrive in USDA zones 5 through 10, even after challenging winters, and produce berries that are four times larger than normal. Many users praise the taste, noting a firm texture and excellent sweetness even when the berries are still slightly pink. However, real-world performance varies. Some customers experienced disappointing survival rates, with only half or fewer of the plants taking off. That said, the company has a strong reputation for replacing failed plants without hassle, often sending more than requested.

The bare root design is straightforward to plant - just set the crowns just below soil level, space them 24 inches apart, and water regularly. These plants can also serve as an attractive ground cover, edging for walkways, or a decorative bed addition. They reach about 10 inches tall and spread up to 12 inches wide. While they require full sun and regular water, they are relatively low maintenance once established.

The biggest drawback is the inconsistency in plant viability. Some buyers received roots that looked dead and never revived, while others had excellent success rates. The price point may feel high for a product with such mixed results, but the customer service response helps mitigate the risk. Additionally, a few customers noted receiving fewer than the advertised 10 plants.

Overall, Gurney's Whopper Strawberry Plants are a great choice if you're after truly giant, flavorful berries and are willing to work with the company's replacement policy. They are best suited for gardeners in the recommended hardiness zones who have some experience with bare root planting. If you get a healthy batch, the reward is impressive. Just be prepared for the possibility of initial failures and know that customer support is there to help.

7
Prime

Pri Gardens Albion Everbearing Strawberry Bare

Pri Gardens
9.5 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
These Albion everbearing strawberry bare roots from Pri Gardens produce large, sweet, firm berries throughout the growing season. Ideal for gardeners in zones 4-7 who want a reliable, disease-resistant variety for fresh eating, freezing, or baking.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Large, sweet berries with excellent flavor and texture
  • Disease resistance reduces need for chemical treatments
  • Everbearing nature provides continuous harvests
  • Healthy, well-developed root systems that establish quickly
  • Great value for 25 bare root plants

Cons

  • Some plants may arrive dried out or damaged if exposed to freezing temperatures during shipping
  • 25 plants may not produce enough for heavy strawberry eaters (multiple packs recommended)
  • Bare roots can look unimpressive upon arrival but usually recover well with proper care
Detailed Review

The Albion Everbearing Strawberry from Pri Gardens is a popular choice for home gardeners who want a steady supply of sweet, large berries without replanting every year. This pack contains 25 bare root plants, each ready to go into the ground in spring. The Albion variety is known for its vigorous growth and high yields, making it a solid investment for anyone serious about growing their own fruit.

What sets these strawberries apart is their exceptional flavor and firm texture. The berries are bright red inside and out, conical in shape, and hold up well whether you eat them fresh, bake them into pies, or freeze them for later. The everbearing trait means you get fruit from late spring all the way through fall, with several flushes of harvest rather than one big crop. Many reviewers noted that the plants established quickly and produced impressive berries even in their first season.

Pri Gardens takes care to ship uncut roots, which helps the plants recover faster after planting. Several customer reviews mention that the roots were long and healthy, leading to a high survival rate even when the tops looked a bit rough. The plants also show resistance to common diseases like Verticillium wilt and crown rot, which is a big plus for organic growers or anyone trying to minimize maintenance.

That said, there are a few things to keep in mind. A small number of buyers received dead or damaged plants, likely due to freezing during winter shipping. Ordering during milder weather or with expedited shipping can help. Also, if you eat a lot of strawberries, 25 plants will only provide a modest supply. One reviewer noted they needed 100 to 150 plants to cover their summer habit. Finally, the bare roots can look unappealing at first (like dried weeds), but most gardeners report that they bounce back quickly once planted.

Overall, the Pri Gardens Albion Everbearing Strawberry bare roots offer a reliable, productive, and flavorful option for home gardeners. With proper care, you can enjoy fresh strawberries for months. Just plan your order size based on your appetite and consider the weather when shipping. For the quality and value, these are hard to beat.

8
Prime

CZGrain All Star Strawberry Plants

CZGrain
9.4 /10
TYG Score
TYG Score is calculated based on product ratings, reviews, and sales performance to help you make informed purchasing decisions. Learn more ›
CZGrain's All Star Strawberry Plants are bare root plants that produce giant, continuous harvests from late spring through fall, perfect for gardens or containers. They're easy to grow with included instructions, but some customers have reported varying quality between batches.
Pros & Cons

Pros

  • High-yielding everbearing variety for months of fresh strawberries
  • Versatile - grows in gardens, containers, and hanging baskets
  • Comes with detailed planting instructions and video guide
  • Many customers report strong root systems and fast growth
  • Giant berry size ideal for pies, jams, or fresh eating

Cons

  • Occasional quality inconsistency - some batches have dead or weak plants
  • Needs full sun and well-drained soil for best results
  • Bare root plants require careful planting and initial care
Detailed Review

CZGrain's All Star Strawberry Plants offer a convenient way to start your own strawberry patch. These bare root plants are designed to produce giant, continuous yields from late spring through fall, making them a favorite for home gardeners who want a steady supply of fresh berries. They are suitable for a variety of growing spaces, including garden beds, raised beds, hanging baskets, and patio containers, which makes them a flexible choice for beginners and experienced growers alike.

The standout feature of these plants is their everbearing nature. Unlike June-bearing varieties that fruit only once, All Star plants keep producing throughout the season. Customer reviews highlight impressive results, with one user reporting strawberries every day for over a year from a window-sill planter. Others note that the plants arrived with green growth already visible and established quickly after planting. The included growing instructions and video tutorial are appreciated by many, especially those new to gardening.

However, not all feedback is glowing. A few customers have experienced dead or weak plants upon arrival, suggesting quality control can be inconsistent. One review mentioned that out of three orders, one batch was a complete failure. This is a risk with bare root plants, as their condition depends heavily on handling and storage before delivery. Still, the majority of reviews are positive, with many praising the strong root systems and rapid growth.

To get the best results, plant these strawberries in full sun with well-drained soil and water moderately. They are not overly demanding, but they do benefit from proper initial care. If you are willing to accept a slight gamble on consistency, the potential reward is a bountiful, long-lasting harvest of large, flavorful strawberries. For those with good conditions and a bit of patience, CZGrain's All Star Strawberry Plants are a solid investment for a home fruit garden.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Plant Strawberries Bare Root

Below are answers to common questions about how to plant strawberries bare root successfully.

1. What is the best time of year for how to plant strawberries bare root?

The ideal planting time is early spring, as soon as the soil is workable and the danger of hard frost has passed. In most regions, that means March to April. Planting in cool weather allows the roots to establish before summer heat. If you are working with containers, you can start a bit earlier by keeping the pots in a sheltered spot. For tips on selecting the right planter, check out our planter category.

2. What is the correct depth for how to plant strawberries bare root?

A common mistake is burying the crown too deep. The crown – the point where the stems meet the roots – should sit just above the soil level. If you cover the crown, the plant may rot. If the roots are exposed, the plant may dry out. A good rule is to dig a hole wide enough to spread the roots, then fill in around them, keeping the crown at the surface. For more on soil preparation, visit our fertilizer category page for nutrient tips.

3. Should I soak bare root strawberries before how to plant strawberries bare root?

Yes, soaking the roots for 30 to 60 minutes in lukewarm water before planting helps rehydrate them. This encourages quicker establishment and reduces transplant shock. Avoid soaking for more than a few hours, as that can damage the roots. Once planted, water them thoroughly. If you are starting strawberries from seed instead of bare root, our seed category has useful information.

4. What kind of soil is best for how to plant strawberries bare root?

Strawberries prefer well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH between 5.5 and 6.5. If your soil is heavy clay or tends to stay wet, consider planting in raised beds or containers. Adding compost or aged manure before planting improves drainage and fertility. For container gardeners, using a high-quality potting mix with good drainage is essential. Find container ideas on our best choice products planter box post.

5. How much spacing is needed for how to plant strawberries bare root?

Space plants about 12 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety. Large, vigorous types like the Whopper strawberry need more room (24 inches), while compact everbearing varieties can be closer (12 inches). Proper spacing improves air circulation and reduces disease. If you are planting in containers, choose a pot that is at least 12 inches wide per plant. For more on container gardening, see our how to turn an old bike into a planter post.