How many strawberry plants? And should I grow now?

[ThaiGrow]

So I'm pretty new to gardening and am currently in the process of setting up my new raised bed. I am in Central FL zone 9B. The size of the raised bed is going to be 4'x12'x14.5" and I would like to use half of it (2'x12') for strawberries. How many plants can I plant in this space and how should I space them? Also, is now a good time to plant them in FL? Thanks

[applestar]

Unless you have a physical barrier, you can't "use half of it" for strawberries because by this time next year, they will occupy ALL of it by spreading via runners (baby plants at the end of stalks that set down roots).

That said, typical recommendation is 12" apart so you should be able to plant 24 -- perfect since most strawberry bundles come in bundles of 25.

I'm not sure about correct time to plant in FL but I suspect now is good. Let's see if someone else knows for sure.

[ThaiGrow]

Thank you for your reply, I was really just wanting to know how many plants could fit given that area, I know I won't be able to physically control it.