Strawberries Didn’t Bloom and Produce

This is a question asked by Julie, a strawberry gardener:

Hi, if my ever-bearing strawberries (planted this year) didn’t bloom and produce, should I leave them and see if they produce next year? Thanks! Julie

Answer by Master Gardener Bruce:

Hi Julie,  Thanks for your question about unproductive strawberries.  Newly planted strawberries may not flower and produce the first year.  They need to get established before they will give you ripe luscious strawberries.  Mulch them this winter, and you should have a nice crop next year.  If you fertilize, use something like a 10-10-10 fertilizer.  To much nitrogen, the first number in fertilizer, can cause excessive leaf growth and very little to no flowers. If you need any further assistance, let me know.