Strawberries grow best in well-drained, slightly acidic soil enriched with sphagnum peat moss. Two types of strawberries are grown in Texas: "June bearing" and "everbearing." June-bearing strawberry varieties are planted in the fall and begin producing strawberries as early as February in some parts of the state. If they are protected, they can survive the summer season, but most professional growers destroy the plants and replant in the spring with disease-free plants. Because of the intense Texas summers, everbearing varieties, which produce several crops in cooler climates, are not recommended for Texas.
Chandler strawberries are very productive and the variety most often seen in the produce section of grocery stores. They do best in USDA horticultural zones 5-8. The fruit is large and has good color. The Chandler is a good variety to use in the annual system in Texas, where plants are planted in the fall for spring production.
The Douglas variety of strawberry plant produces the largest strawberries of the varieties recommended for Texas. It is also a heavy producer of high-quality berries. The plant is suitable for USDA horticultural zones 5-8. The Douglas is also a good variety for planting in the fall for spring harvest.
The Sequoia variety of strawberry has a bright red color. It is a favorite for making jams and jellies because of its exceptionally sweet flavor. The Sequoia grows well in the warmer parts of the state and is appropriate for USDA horticultural zones 8-10. This variety works well if growing strawberries using the annual production method.