Grow Albion Strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa 'Albion'), a premium day-neutral strawberry variety in the Rosaceae family, developed by the University of California. Known for its large, firm, deep-red berries and exceptionally sweet flavor, this productive perennial produces delicious strawberries across an extended growing season. Supplied as bare-root plants, Albion Strawberries are an excellent choice for home gardens, raised beds, and containers, offering fresh, flavorful harvests for snacking, desserts, and homemade preserves.
Why Choose These Plants
- Produces large, firm, deep-red strawberries with excellent sweet flavor
- Day-neutral variety capable of repeated harvests throughout the growing season
- Supplied as 10 bare-root plants, ready for planting
- Suitable for garden beds, raised beds, and strawberry containers
- Perennial fruit plants with good resistance to certain common strawberry diseases
At a Glance
| Plant |
Fragaria × ananassa 'Albion' |
| Order contents |
10 bare-root strawberry plants |
| Family |
Rosaceae |
| Origin |
California, USA (University of California breeding program) |
| Natural habitat |
Cultivated gardens and agricultural growing environments |
| Plant type |
Day-neutral, everbearing perennial fruit plant |
| Best for |
Home gardens, raised beds, containers, fresh eating |
| Light |
Full sun (6–8+ hours daily) |
| Fruit color |
Deep red |
| Success starts with |
Correct crown depth, fertile soil, consistent moisture, and moderate temperatures |
How to Start
- Unpack bare-root strawberry plants promptly and inspect the roots for dryness or damage.
- If roots appear dry, soak them in clean water for approximately 20–30 minutes before planting.
- Choose a sunny location with fertile, well-drained soil enriched with compost or organic matter.
- Dig planting holes deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending or crowding them.
- Position each plant with its roots spread downward and the center of the crown level with the soil surface.
- Space plants approximately 12–18 inches (30–45 cm) apart to allow healthy growth and airflow.
- Cover the roots with soil, keeping the crown exposed, and water thoroughly after planting.
- Maintain consistent soil moisture, apply mulch to protect developing berries, and remove the first blossoms for several weeks to encourage strong root establishment.
Set expectations: Albion is a day-neutral strawberry variety capable of producing fruit repeatedly during favorable growing conditions, typically from late spring into fall. New bare-root plants may initially appear dormant, with little or no foliage, but healthy crowns can develop new leaves after planting. Under suitable conditions, strawberries may be harvested approximately 8–12 weeks after planting, although establishment and fruiting times vary. Extreme summer heat can temporarily reduce flowering and fruit production. Albion generally performs well in USDA Hardiness Zones 4–8 with appropriate seasonal care.
Frequently Asked Questions
What will I receive?
10 Albion Day-Neutral Strawberry bare-root plants.
When should I plant them?
Plant in early spring when the soil is workable, or during suitable cool fall weather in mild climates.
How deep should I plant bare roots?
Cover the roots completely, keeping the crown level with the soil surface.
When will Albion Strawberries produce fruit?
They may begin producing within 8–12 weeks under favorable conditions.
Will Albion Strawberries return every year?
Yes! They're perennial plants that can return and produce fruit for multiple seasons with proper care.
