When to Plant Strawberries in Madera County, CA
Strawberries are a beloved perennial fruit available as June-bearing, ever-bearing, and day-neutral types. They are one of the easiest fruits to grow in containers or garden beds.
Madera County, California is in USDA Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and the first fall frost is November 9, giving you a growing season of approximately 205 days.
At an elevation of 187 feet, Madera County receives approximately 14.5 inches of rainfall annually with predominantly loam soil. Summer highs average 104°F, so Strawberries may need afternoon shade and extra watering during peak heat. With low rainfall, drip irrigation is essential for growing Strawberries successfully. Mulch heavily to conserve soil moisture.
Madera County Soil Profile
Soil Type
Loam
Soil pH
6.2-7.8
Drainage
Well Drained
Plant Planting Risk Windows
Percentages indicate frost risk at transplant. The 70% safe window means there is a 30% chance of frost after transplant — suitable for cold-hardy crops or gardeners with frost protection. The 90% safe window is best for tender plants.
Plant Water Budget
Water stress score is 8/10 — consider drought-tolerant varieties and mulching
Strawberries Planting Timeline — Madera County, CA
Strawberries Planting Calendar
| Activity | When | Date Range |
|---|---|---|
| Transplant Outdoors | May 2 | May 2 – May 16 |
| Harvest | August 1 | Aug 1 – Feb 27 |
· 12" apart · Rows 24" apart
Month-by-Month Timeline
| Month | Activities |
|---|---|
| January | Harvest |
| February | Harvest |
| March | — |
| April | — |
| May | Transplant Outdoors |
| June | — |
| July | — |
| August | Harvest |
| September | Harvest |
| October | Harvest |
| November | Harvest |
| December | Harvest |
Growing Conditions
Sun
Full Sun (6-8+ hours)
Water
Moderate — regular watering
Days to Maturity
90–365 days
Soil pH
5.5 – 6.8
USDA Zone
Zone 9a
Growing Season
205 days
Growing Tips for Madera County
Plant with crowns at soil level. Remove runners the first year to strengthen plants. Mulch with straw to keep fruit clean and suppress weeds. Renovate June-bearing beds after harvest.
Companion Planting
Good Companions
Avoid Planting Near
Level Up Your Garden
Strawberries in Other Locations
Frequently Asked Questions
When should I plant Strawberries in Madera County, CA?
Madera County is in Zone 9a with an average last frost of April 18. Plan your Strawberries planting based on this frost date — see the calendar above for exact timing.
What planting zone is Madera County, CA?
Madera County, California is in USDA Hardiness Zone 9a. The average last spring frost is April 18 and first fall frost is November 9.
Plan Your Garden with Confidence
Get our free Garden Planner — designed to help Madera County gardeners in Zone 9a organize planting dates, track what's growing, and never miss a planting window.
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