The Best Variety Of Strawberries To Grow In Your Container Garden

Just because you have limited garden space doesn't mean you have to give up on your strawberry dreams. Growing strawberries when you don't have space for a garden bed is entirely possible, and you can utilize any outdoor space, from your balcony to your patio, to enjoy a bounty of delicious sweet fruits in the summer. However, making sure you choose the right variety of strawberry will make all the difference in your container growing endeavors. Varieties like Fort Laramie stand out as champions because they thrive in hanging baskets and window boxes, making them a truly fantastic for small-space gardeners. Fort Laramie strawberries (Fragaria x ananassa 'Fort Laramie') are ideal for USDA hardiness zones 3 through 7.

Many strawberry varieties only produce fruit on the main plant, but Fort Laramie also fruits on its runners, which is a great feature for any plant grown in a container. Another key advantage is that these strawberries are relatively cold-resistant and will survive frost with the proper mulch. And Fort Laramie strawberries will fruit the same year they are planted, which means no waiting for next summer to reap the benefits.

The more ways you know how to grow and care for your strawberry plant, the more likely you are to have a successful yield. Make sure you start with containers that are at least 8 inches deep with good drainage holes (strawberries are notorious for hating soggy roots). Then you want to make sure you fill your pots with high-quality potting mix enriched with compost (not just garden soil). Finally, position your containers somewhere where they'll get at least six hours of direct sunlight daily. If you're in a hot climate, morning sun is best as you don't want the plants to overheat in the afternoon rays.

There is an essential watering tip you need for thriving strawberry plants, and that's to check moisture levels often. Stick your finger into an inch of the soil and if it's dry, water it immediately. Consistently watering your plants means your strawberries will grow large and uniform. And finally, feed your Fort Laramie strawberries with a formula of phosphorus and potassium once flowering begins. With this proper care in mind, you can enjoy Fort Laramie strawberries from spring until the fall. And while their cascading runners provide you with lots of fruit, they also create an attractive display wherever you display them, a small win for your small outdoor space.