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Gardening

Never Buy Strawberries Again

Step 1: Choose the Right Planter

Select a planter that is at least 12 inches deep to provide enough space for the strawberry plants' roots. Ensure that the planter has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.

Step 2: Choose the Right Strawberry Variety

There are different types of strawberry plants available, so choose a variety that suits your climate and growing conditions. Some popular varieties include June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral strawberries.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Use a well-draining potting mix or a combination of garden soil and compost. Ensure that the soil is loose and friable to allow proper root development. Avoid using heavy clay soil, as it can retain too much moisture.

Step 4: Plant the Strawberries

Place the planter in a sunny location that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Fill the planter with soil, leaving about 1 inch of space below the rim. Space the strawberry plants about 12 inches apart, allowing enough room for growth. Make sure the crowns (the area where the leaves meet the roots) are level with the soil surface.

Step 5: Water the Plants

After planting, water the strawberry plants thoroughly. Ensure that the soil is evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water regularly, especially during dry periods, and avoid overhead watering to prevent diseases.

Step 6: Provide Nutrients

Strawberries are heavy feeders, so they require regular fertilization. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or apply a liquid fertilizer every two to three weeks, following the manufacturer's instructions. This will help promote healthy growth and fruit production.

Step 7: Mulch the Plants

Apply a layer of straw or mulch around the strawberry plants to suppress weed growth, retain moisture, and protect the fruit from direct contact with the soil. Spread the mulch evenly, making sure to keep it away from the crowns.

Step 8: Monitor for Pests and Diseases

Regularly inspect your strawberry plants for signs of pests or diseases, such as aphids, slugs, or fungal infections. If you notice any issues, take appropriate measures to control them, such as using organic pest control methods or consulting with a local garden center for advice.

Step 9: Pollination

Most strawberry varieties are self-pollinating, but to ensure better fruit set, you can gently brush a soft-bristled brush or your finger against the flowers to transfer pollen between plants.

Step 10: Harvest the Strawberries

As the strawberries ripen, they will turn fully red and become sweet and juicy. Harvest them when they are fully ripe by gently plucking them from the plants, taking care not to damage the fragile fruit. Enjoy your homegrown strawberries!

Upcycling tip:

A leftover rotisserie chicken container makes a great mini greenhouse!

 

DIG INTO CONTAINER GARDENING!

Short on space, time, or money or just want to garden in a new way? Container gardening helps you to explore your love of plants as well as “grow” your green thumb knowledge.

Inside this guide to gardening in containers, you’ll find . . .

  • Specific advice for growing miniature, bush, and other small-space vegetables, as well as herbs and fruit

  • Profiles of singularly sensational ornamental plants

  • Profiles of “thriller,” “spiller,” and “filler” plants, plus how to arrange them based on colors, textures, shapes, and more

  • Help in choosing proper containers, with tips on how to clean both pots and tools

  • The most desirable growing medium, how to make your own optimum mix, and how much you’ll need

  • Advice on providing sun, water, and fertilizer, plus what to do if you’ve overdone it

  • How to deter diseases and pests (and eliminate them if 
    need be!)

  • Pages for recording your experiences and observations

  • Helpful anecdotes from fellow gardeners

  • Much, much more!

Perfect for brand-new and experienced gardeners alike, The Old Farmer’s Almanac Container Gardener’s Handbook (companion to the Vegetable Gardener’s Handbook and Flower Gardener’s Handbook) promises bountiful harvests and captivatingly colorful arrangements in pots—the ultimate small-space gardens.

(order your copy - click here)

 

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