How to Propagate Strawberries Using Runners – A Hands-On Homeschool Handicraft Lesson

Strawberries are one of the easiest and most rewarding plants to grow with kids. Not only do they produce sweet, juicy fruit, but they also teach children about plant life cycles, reproduction, and stewardship of the garden. One of the simplest ways to multiply your strawberry patch is by propagating runners, and it’s the perfect summer handicraft lesson for your homeschool or garden unit study.

What is a Strawberry Runner?
If you’ve ever grown strawberries, you’ve noticed long stems stretching out from the main plant. These are called runners or stolons. Each runner produces a tiny “baby plant” at its end. In nature, when the baby touches the soil, it begins to grow roots and eventually becomes an independent strawberry plant.

Why Teach This as a Handicraft Lesson?
Propagating strawberries:

• Teaches kids patience and observation
• Encourages responsibility as they care for their new plant
• Provides a practical, productive skill they can use in their home garden for years to come

How to Do It
The process is simple and doesn’t require fancy equipment:

1. Find a healthy strawberry runner with a baby plant at its end.
2. Place a small pot of soil under the baby plant.
3. Gently press the baby onto the soil so it touches firmly. Pin it down lightly with a paperclip bent into a U-shape or a small rock.
4. Keep the runner attached to the mother plant while roots develop over 2–3 weeks.
5. Once rooted, cut the runner and transplant your new strawberry plant to its final home in the garden or a large container.

Try This with Your Kids This Week!
This is a great activity to pair with garden journaling, strawberry-themed copywork, or botany studies. Plus, what child wouldn’t love knowing they grew their snack?

Download the Full Lesson Plan
I’ve created a printable lesson plan with step-by-step instructions, supply list, observation questions, and extension ideas for your homeschool unit studies. Download it below to add to your summer garden, nature, or handicraft binder.