Growing strawberries in pots is a great option for gardeners with limited space, and it’s an easy way to keep your strawberry plants close to your kitchen or patio for quick harvests. Here's how to successfully plant strawberries in a pot:
Choosing the Right Pot: Strawberries have shallow root systems, so a pot that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has good drainage holes is ideal. You can grow one plant per 12-inch pot, or choose a larger container if you want to plant multiple strawberries. Terra cotta, plastic, or fabric pots are all good options, but make sure whatever you choose allows excess water to drain away, as strawberries dislike waterlogged soil.
Soil Preparation: Use a high-quality potting mix that is light and well-draining. Strawberries prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.8. Before planting, mix BigAss Berries fertilizer into the soil to give your strawberries the nutrients they need. For a 12-inch pot, use 1 scoop (1 tablespoon) of fertilizer. The organic nutrients in BigAss Berries will support strong root growth and fruit production throughout the season.
Planting: Place your strawberry plant in the center of the pot, ensuring that the crown is just above the soil surface. Fill in around the roots with soil, pressing down gently to eliminate air pockets. Water the plant thoroughly after planting to help settle the soil.
Caring for Potted Strawberries: Potted strawberries need more frequent watering than those planted in the ground, as container soil dries out more quickly. Water regularly, making sure the soil stays moist but not soggy. During the growing season, fertilize your potted strawberries every 6-8 weeks with BigAss Berries fertilizer to keep them healthy and productive.
Position your pots in a location that receives full sunlight (at least 6-8 hours per day). Potted strawberries can be moved to take advantage of the sun or to protect them from extreme weather. If you live in a region with cold winters, bring the pots indoors during frost or cover them to protect the plants.
With the right care, you’ll enjoy a continuous harvest of fresh strawberries from your pots throughout the growing season. And if you’re looking for an even more specialized fertilizer for strawberries, stay tuned for the release of Happy Strawberry fertilizer, designed specifically for strawberry plants in containers or the ground.