How to Grow Giant Strawberries at Home (Australian Guide)

There's nothing quite like picking a strawberry the size of your palm straight from your own garden. Growing giant strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa) from seed is a rewarding project that's perfect to kick off in early spring across most of Australia.

When to Plant Giant Strawberry Seeds in Australia

Spring is the prime planting season for strawberries. Start seeds indoors 6–8 weeks before your last frost date, or sow directly into garden beds from September onwards in frost-free areas.

• Southern states (VIC, TAS, SA): Start indoors in August, transplant outdoors from October.
• NSW & QLD coastal: Sow directly from September.
• WA (Perth): September–October is ideal.

How to Sow Giant Strawberry Seeds

1. Press seeds lightly onto the surface of moist seed-raising mix — don't bury them, they need light to germinate.
2. Cover the tray loosely with plastic wrap to retain humidity.
3. Place in a warm, bright spot (20–25°C).
4. Germination takes 2–4 weeks.
5. Thin seedlings to the strongest plant per cell once they have two true leaves.

Growing Tips for Bigger Fruit

• Plant in full sun — at least 6 hours per day.
• Use a rich, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5) with plenty of compost.
• Mulch around plants to retain moisture and keep fruit clean.
• Feed with a potassium-rich fertiliser once flowering begins to encourage large, sweet fruit.
• Remove runners to direct energy into fruit production.

In pots? Strawberries thrive in containers — use a pot at least 30cm wide and deep, with excellent drainage.

Start your strawberry patch this spring with our Giant Strawberry Seeds – Fragaria x ananassa.