Wild Strawberry Seeds
Best rewarding experience for home gardeners of all skill levels.
Thomas Jefferson first recorded "strawberries come to table," at Shadwell, his boyhood home, on May 28, 1767. This diary entry added: "100 fill half a pint," suggesting he was growing the Wild Strawberry, which bears small, extremely sweet fruits. During his 1791 excursion through New England with James Madison, Jefferson also observed "strawberries in abundance" in the forests and banks along Lake George. Sow seeds indoors 12-20 weeks before last frost date at 68˚F. Fragaria virginiana seeds have naturally low germination; provide 60-85 days of cold-moist stratification before sowing to enhance germination. Transplant to 3" pots once they have several true leaves, then harden off and plant outdoors after last frost. Plants spread by runners. Approx. 50-60 seeds per packet.
$3.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
3241
/ 6513
#3241 in Seeds & Seed Tape
Price vs Category Average
-63%
Below average
Genus
Fragaria
/ Fragaria
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking historical authenticity and a unique growing project
- Foodies and home cooks desiring exceptional, natural berry flavor
- Eco-conscious gardeners wanting low-maintenance, wildlife-friendly ground cover
Who should skip it
- Novice gardeners or those expecting quick, easy seed germination
- Growers prioritizing large fruit size and high yields for fresh eating
- Impatient gardeners or those seeking immediate gratification from their efforts
Performance breakdown
Historical Authenticity
Directly linked to Jefferson’s own 18th-century garden records.
Germination Difficulty
Requires precise cold-moist stratification to overcome natural dormancy.
Flavor Intensity
Small berries pack a significantly sweeter punch than commercial varieties.
Growth Habit
Spreading runners make these ideal for naturalizing garden borders.
Climate Versatility
Broad hardiness range covers most temperate North American regions.
Seed Quantity
Low seed count requires careful sowing to maximize success rates.
Key Specs
Genus
Fragaria
Species
virginiana
USDA Zones
3 - 9
Exposure
Full Sun
Planting Method
Transplant
Planting Depth
Surface Sow
Days to Emerge
21 - 30
Plant Spacing
3 - 10" apart
Know before you buy
Fragaria virginiana seeds have naturally low germination rates. To improve your success, you must provide 60-85 days of cold-moist stratification before sowing.
You should sow the seeds indoors 12-20 weeks before your area's last frost date. Keep the soil temperature around 68˚F for optimal results.
These plants grow to a height of about 6 inches and spread via runners. Space your transplants 3 to 10 inches apart to allow them room to establish.
These seeds are hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 9. They thrive in full sun, making them a versatile choice for many home gardens.
Once the seedlings develop several true leaves, transplant them into 3-inch pots. Harden them off gradually before planting them outdoors after the danger of frost has passed.
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