Oh, don't be intimidated :-) Strawberries are about the easiest fruit to grow! All you need is good, rich, well drained, but moisture retentive soil and enough sun. And protection of the fruit from birds, squirrels, slugs and other garden marauders.

A raised bed is ideal. And depending on the size of the plants you start with, you can get fruit the first season.

If you grow veggies successfully, there is no reason why you should not be able to grow strawberries just as well!

It is important to plant strawberry varieties suitable for your climate. Flavorfest is an excellent variety for the-mid-Atlantic.

I'm not sure how relevant that is :-) Unlike fruit trees, most strawberry varieties can grow equally well in most locations. Recommended varieties for PA are similar to those recommended here in WA state. But do check with your extension service for their specific recommendations.

I appreciate all the comments! I am ready to give this a try. Cathy, your bed looks great! It is so full, I love it. My bed is 4x8(ish). Seems like you get a very nice haul.

Gardengal, I guess the thought of runners scared me for some reason haha. I watched a youtube video and I think I was nervous for nothing.

I grew a couple dozen strawberries in a new bed which I double dug. It's in a spot without enough sun. They aren't doing very well. The plants hang in there, send out some runners. In three years we got one strawberry that the critters didn't get. I need to move those plants, and repurpose the fence and those posts!