Gordon Johnson, Extension Vegetable & Fruit Specialist; gcjohn@udel.edu
Highest yields in plasticulture strawberries require proper bed formation. While bed makers and plastic layers used for vegetables can be used, it is preferred to use bed makers specifically designed for plasticulture strawberry systems (such as a Kennco or Reddick machines). These produce beds that are 32 inches wide at the base, 30 inches wide at the top and 10 inches tall with a crowned top for good drainage. With this type of bed, you can have bed centers at 5 ft between beds. It is also important to lay the plastic so that it is tight against the soil. This allows for effective heat transfer that will promote good strawberry growth in the fall.