Perennials in zones 5-8

Edible parts of plants: the fruit

Sun requirements: full sun

Ideal temperature: 60 to 80 F (15-26 C)

Soil type requirements: slightly acidic, between 5.5 and 6.8 pH

Space requirements: plant 18 inches apart for most varieties as plants will produce runners. 

Water frequency: 1.5 inches/week 

Possible companion plants: Garlic, lettuce, beans 

Planting season: Either spring or fall. In zone 7b, where DC is, you can plant strawberries in early fall. Fall planting can increase your first-year harvest, as the plants are more mature by the time fruiting begins. However, you can also plant them as traditional spring perennials. 

Start date: For spring: mid-December to early April. For fall planting: mid to late September.  

Starting method: from seed or from cutting

Harvest date: Depending on the variety, strawberries will either bear a heavy crop over a few weeks in June (or earlier, in warmer climates) or they will produce fruit continuously throughout the spring and summer. 'Allstar' is a June-bearing fruit. 

Aggression: Strawberries put out shallow runners each year, meaning they can easily spread. Keep contained using a fence. 

Pests: Many animals love to eat strawberries. Keep slugs out by using plastic mulch. Deter birds by putting up netting or shiny objects, such as CDs. 

Perennials in zones 5-8

Edible parts of plants: the fruit

Sun requirements: full sun

Soil type requirements: well-drained, poor soil. Overly-fertile soil will reduce fruit yield.  

Space requirements: plant canes 3 feet apart, with 5 feet between rows.  

Water frequency: 1 inch every 7-10 days during hot weather. 

Possible companion plants: Garlic, lettuce, beans 

Planting season: While it's possible to grow raspberries from seed, it means they won't bear fruit till the next year. It's easier to grow from canes. Plant canes (year old plants) in early April.  

Starting method: from canes. 

Harvest date: Harvest raspberries continually throughout the summer. 

Root rot: A common problem amongst raspberries. "Cascade Delight" is resistant against root rot. If it does occur, apply ridomil. 

Image credit: PNW Pest Management Handbook