Have you ever wondered about planting strawberries in containers, but aren’t sure where to begin? Bare root strawberries are an excellent solution for gardeners looking to grow strawberries in small spaces or on patios. Not only are bare-root strawberry plants more affordable than their potted counterparts, but they also offer a broader selection of varieties often available through mail-order nurseries.
When you receive bare root strawberries, they might look dry and lifeless, but don’t be deceived. These dormant plants are ready to thrive with the right care. In fact, within a few months, you’ll see these seemingly sad roots transform into lush, fruitful strawberry plants.
What Are Bare Root Strawberries?
Bare root strawberries are plants that are sold without soil surrounding their roots. This makes them easier to handle, lighter to ship, and more cost-effective than potted strawberry plants. Typically sold in bulk, bare-root strawberries come in convenient units of 25 plants, which means the more you buy, the less you pay per plant. They are usually packaged in perforated plastic bags for easy shipping, often through mail-order nurseries, giving you access to a wide range of strawberry varieties that your local garden center may not carry.
Why Plant Strawberries in Containers?
If you’re asking yourself, “Why bother with containers?” let me tell you why this method can be a game-changer. Growing strawberries in containers allows you to have total control over the environment your plants grow. If you have a small balcony, a tiny backyard, or you live in an apartment with no garden, container gardening provides the flexibility you need.
The benefits of planting strawberries in containers are many:
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Easy mobility: Containers are portable! This means you can move your strawberry plants around to find the best spot for them, whether it’s a sunny spot on your balcony or a more sheltered area during the colder months.
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Better soil control: With containers, you get to decide the soil mix, ensuring it’s light, well-draining, and nutrient-rich for healthy growth.
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Less risk of pests and diseases: Plants in containers can be easier to protect from pests that usually invade traditional garden beds.
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Space-saving: You can even grow strawberries indoors in containers, making it perfect for those without outdoor space.
Now that you know the perks, let’s get into how to plant your bare root strawberries and make sure they thrive.
Choosing the Right Container for Bare Root Strawberries
So, what do you need to consider when picking one? Let’s go through the important factors:
1. Size
Strawberries are perennial plants, meaning they come back year after year. To ensure they have enough space for their roots to grow deep and spread out, choose a container that is at least 12 inches deep and wide. A container that’s too small might limit root growth and lead to smaller, less healthy plants.
2. Material
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Plastic containers are lightweight and hold moisture well, making them a great option for strawberries. They’re also durable and inexpensive.
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Terracotta pots look nice and allow for good airflow to the roots, but they tend to dry out quickly. If you use terracotta, be sure to water more frequently.
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Ceramic pots are attractive but can be quite heavy, which could be a hassle if you need to move them around. They also retain moisture better than terracotta.
3. Drainage
Strawberries do NOT like to sit in waterlogged soil. Drainage is key to preventing root rot. Make sure your container has adequate drainage holes at the bottom. If your container doesn’t have holes, you can easily drill a few to make sure excess water can escape.
4. Portability
If you live in an area with fluctuating temperatures, you might want to be able to move your container to a more protected area during colder months. Choose a lightweight container or use a rolling tray to make your strawberries easy to relocate.
Planting Bare Root Strawberries
Now, let’s roll up our sleeves and start planting those strawberries! Here’s a simple, foolproof guide to help you get the job done.
1. Prepare the Bare Root Strawberries
Bare root strawberry plants are dormant when you buy them, meaning they don’t have visible leaves or flowers. But don’t be discouraged—these bare roots will soon spring to life with the right care.
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Inspect the roots: Check for any damaged, dry, or diseased roots. Trim off any unhealthy parts to ensure the plant’s energy goes into healthy growth.
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Soak the roots: Before planting, soak the bare root strawberries in water for about 2 to 3 hours. This helps hydrate the roots and kickstart their growth when planted.
2. Prepare the Soil
Strawberries thrive in well-draining soil that’s rich in organic matter. You can easily make your own soil mix at home by combining the following ingredients:
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1 part compost
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2 parts high-quality potting soil
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1 part perlite or coarse sand for drainage
This mix will ensure your strawberry plants have the nutrients they need while allowing excess water to drain out.
3. Plant the Bare Root Strawberries
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Dig a hole: In the center of your container, create a hole large enough to spread the roots out without bending them.
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Place the plant: Gently place the bare root strawberry in the hole, making sure the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) is slightly above the soil surface. If you plant the crown too deep, it could rot.
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Cover the roots: Fill the hole with your soil mix, firming it lightly around the roots to remove air pockets. Be careful not to cover the crown with soil, as it should be exposed to air.
4. Water the Plants
Once the strawberries are planted, give them a good watering to help settle the soil. Make sure the water drains freely from the bottom of the container. Strawberries need consistent moisture to grow, but be careful not to overwater. A well-draining container will keep the roots happy.
Caring for Bare Root Strawberries in Containers
Now that your strawberries are safely planted, here’s how to care for them and ensure a bountiful harvest.
Watering
Strawberries in containers need regular watering, especially during hot months. Be sure to water the plants when the top inch of soil feels dry. Keep an eye on the weather – in hot summer months, you may need to water them every day, while cooler weather may require less frequent watering.
Fertilizing
To help your strawberries produce healthy fruit, you’ll need to fertilize them regularly. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or organic compost every 4-6 weeks during the growing season. You can also use liquid fertilizers like fish emulsion or seaweed extract to provide a boost of nutrients.
Sunlight
Strawberries are sun-lovers! To thrive, they need at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Place your containers in a sunny spot—on a balcony, windowsill, or patio where they can soak up the sun. If you’re growing strawberries indoors, consider using grow lights to supplement natural sunlight.
Pruning and Maintenance
Strawberries in containers require regular pruning to stay healthy. Trim away any dead leaves and yellowing foliage to keep the plant’s energy focused on producing fruit. If your strawberries send out runners (stolons), feel free to remove them to prevent them from draining energy from the main plant.
Harvesting Your Strawberries
After weeks of care, your strawberry plants will reward you with sweet, ripe fruit! But how do you know when to pick them?
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Look for full color: A ripe strawberry should be a deep, rich red with no green or white patches. If it’s still a little pale, give it more time to ripen.
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Test for firmness: Gently squeeze the fruit—it should feel firm but not hard.
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Taste test: The sweetest way to tell if your strawberries are ready is by tasting them. A perfectly ripe strawberry should be juicy, sweet, and bursting with flavor.
Gently cut the strawberries from the plant using scissors or pruning shears, leaving a small stem attached to avoid damaging the plant.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Bare Root Strawberries in Containers
While planting strawberries in containers is relatively easy, you might run into a few issues along the way. Here’s how to solve some of the most common problems:
1. Yellowing Leaves
This is often a sign of nutrient deficiency, poor drainage, or overwatering. Try adding a balanced fertilizer and check your watering schedule. Make sure your container has proper drainage holes to avoid standing water.
2. Pests
Strawberries can attract pests like aphids, slugs, and snails. Keep an eye out and use natural pest control methods like neem oil or simply hand-pick the pests from the plants.
3. Wilting
Wilting could be a sign of underwatering or root rot. Check the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule. Make sure your container has proper drainage to avoid waterlogging the roots.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. When should I plant my bare root strawberries?
The best time to plant bare root strawberries is in early spring, after the last frost. In warmer climates, you can plant them in the fall for a head start before the growing season.
2. Can I grow strawberries indoors?
Yes! You can grow strawberries indoors in containers, as long as they get enough sunlight. Place them near a south-facing window or use grow lights to ensure they get 6-8 hours of light each day.
3. How do I protect my strawberries from the cold?
If you’re growing strawberries in containers, you can move them indoors or cover them with a frost cloth to protect them during freezing temperatures.
4. How often should I water my strawberries?
Water your strawberries when the top inch of soil feels dry. During hot weather, they may need daily watering, but in cooler months, reduce watering frequency.
Conclusion
Growing strawberries in containers from bare roots is a rewarding and manageable way to enjoy fresh, homegrown fruit. With a little bit of care and attention, you’ll be harvesting strawberries in no time.
Remember, the key to success is finding the right container, providing your plants with plenty of sunlight, and keeping the soil consistently moist. So, grab your bare root strawberry plants, get your containers ready, and start your strawberry garden today!
Happy gardening, and here’s to a fruitful harvest of delicious strawberries!
