How to Grow Strawberries in Pots, Beds or Baskets

Project Overview

Strawberries suit small gardens because they grow in beds, troughs, hanging baskets and pots. Good spacing, sun and mulch help fruit ripen cleanly without sitting on wet soil.

Safety Note

Use clean compost for edible crops, wash fruit before eating, and avoid using treated timber or chemical containers where fruit may touch the surface.

What You Need

• Strawberry plants
• Pots, baskets or a raised bed
• Compost and straw mulch
• Trowel and watering can
• Netting if birds are a problem

Method

1. Plant strawberries in a sunny position with the crown level with the compost surface.
2. Space plants so air can move around the leaves.
3. Water at the base rather than soaking the fruit.
4. Add straw or mulch when fruit starts swelling.
5. Remove runners unless you want to make new plants.

Common Mistakes

Planting the crown too deep can rot the plant. Letting fruit sit on wet compost attracts slugs and mould.

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