Introduction
Growing your own strawberries is a fun and rewarding activity, but not everyone has the space to plant them in the ground. Luckily, strawberries can also be grown in pots, making them perfect for small spaces like balconies or patios. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to plant bare root strawberries in pots.
Choosing the Right Pot
When it comes to growing strawberries in pots, size matters. You’ll want to choose a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and 8 inches deep. This will give your plants enough room to grow and produce fruit. Make sure your pot has drainage holes to prevent water from pooling at the bottom.
Preparing the Soil
Strawberries prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Mix together equal parts of potting soil, compost, and perlite or vermiculite to create a loose, fertile soil. Fill your pot with the soil mixture, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
Soaking the Roots
Before planting your bare root strawberries, it’s important to soak their roots in water for at least an hour. This will help rehydrate the roots and prevent them from drying out.
Planting the Strawberries
Make a small hole in the center of the soil and gently place the bare root strawberry plant in the hole. Cover the roots with soil, making sure not to bury the crown (the part of the plant where the roots meet the stem). Water the plant well after planting.
Spacing the Plants
If you’re planting multiple strawberry plants in one pot, make sure to space them at least 6 inches apart. This will give each plant enough room to grow and produce fruit.
Providing Support
As your strawberry plants grow, they will need support to keep their fruit off the ground. You can use a trellis or a stake to provide support. Simply tie the plant to the support as it grows.
Caring for Your Plants
Strawberries need regular watering to keep their soil moist, but not waterlogged. Water your plants when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. You can also fertilize your plants every month with a balanced fertilizer.
Harvesting Your Strawberries
When your strawberries are ripe, they will turn bright red and feel soft to the touch. Gently pick the fruit off the plant, being careful not to damage the plant or the fruit.
Conclusion
Growing bare root strawberries in pots is a fun and easy way to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit even if you don’t have a lot of space. With the right pot, soil, and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy strawberries all season long.