Strawberry pots are the pots that are shaped like an urn and
have `pockets' up and down the sides of the pot. They are made
especially for growing strawberries and are easy and convenient. You
can also grow herbs, flowers or other plants in them. Plants that
have a hanging habit put the pockets of strawberry pots to good use.
Strawberries do have a hanging habit and don't mind being cramped
because their roots are shallow so are an excellent choice for
growing in a strawberry pot.
If planting with other plants than strawberries, be sure to check
their growing requirements before planting to be sure they are
compatible. You'll need to group plants that require about the same
amount of sun, water, type of soil and amount of fertilizer.
The pots are made of different materials, some plastic, some terra
cotta, and some ceramic. Each material has its` pros and cons. With
plastic, the pot is lightweight and will have a chance of toppling
over in the wind but it is the least expensive. Since terra cotta is
porous, it sucks up the moisture in the soil and therefore has to be
watered more often, but, terra cotta is attractive. Ceramic may be
the best way to go because it is heavy, retains water and is
attractive, but you'll probably be paying a little more. When you
purchase your pot, be sure it has holes in the bottom for drainage.
This will ensure that your plants' roots won't be sitting in water
and rotting.
When purchasing plants for the pot, choose one plant for
each `pocket' and three or four for the top. When potting, use any
all-purpose potting soil and, if you wish, mix in a slow-release
fertilizer. If you don't use the slow-release fertilizer, keep in
mind that you will need to fertilize your plants some other way after
planting. Plants in pots need more feeding than ones in the ground
because each watering leaches nutrients from the potting soil.
Begin planting by putting the potting soil in the pot until you reach
the first `pocket' level. At this point, plant a strawberry or other
plant in that `pocket'. Continue all the way to about 3-4 inches
from the top level and plant the three or four plants there and fill
in with potting soil. Water well.
If planted with strawberries, set the planted pots in full sun on
your patio or in your yard. Check to see if the soil is dry daily by
poking your finger in the top inch of soil. If it is dry, then it's
time to water.
Strawberry pots can be a fun way to garden. Consider planting themed
gardens in them such as all blue flowers or Italian seasoning herbs.
Just remember it's very important to make sure the chosen plants are
compatible and will like growing in the cramped quarters of a
strawberry pot. Have fun!
Copyright ©, 2000, Monica Resinger
About the author:
Monica Resinger is the Editor of The Homemaker's Journal Ezine, a jam-packed e-mail e-zine that publishes the collective advice of thousands of homemakers in all home and garden topics like organizing, cooking, parties, decorating, cleaning, family life, gardening, crafts and much more! Become a part of our family and receive this fun and informative resource Monday through Friday. Join now by sending a blank e-mail to
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