Mulch, such as clear or black plastic sheeting, can discourage some insects, conserve moisture, moderate temperatures, decrease erosion and reduce weeds. Cover the soil with the plastic and plant the strawberries in holes cut in the plastic. In warmer climates, plastic mulch may need to be covered with an organic mulch to prevent burns on the foliage. In the winter, two inches of straw over the plants after the ground freezes will help protect against damage.
For more information, please see the PlantTalk script #1208, Strawberries.
