Growing Strawberries in Hanging Baskets in Ontario
Welcome to the delightful world of growing strawberries in hanging baskets! Here in Ontario, we have a vast variety of gardening enthusiasts, all eager to make the most of our warm summers and enjoy the fruits of their labor. In this article, we’ll explore the art of cultivating luscious, sweet strawberries in hanging baskets – a fantastic method for those with limited space or who want to add a charming touch to their garden.
Why Hanging Baskets?
You might be wondering, why opt for hanging baskets when it comes to growing strawberries? Well, the answer is simple. Not only do hanging baskets save precious ground space, but they also keep your beloved strawberries safe from pests and diseases that thrive at ground level. Plus, the sight of those vibrant red berries dangling from above is enough to make anyone’s heart sing!
Choosing the Right Strawberry Variety:
When it comes to selecting the perfect strawberry variety for your hanging baskets, it’s essential to consider Ontario’s unique climate. Day-neutral and ever-bearing varieties are the top choices for our region, as they offer continuous fruit production throughout the season. Some popular options include ‘Albion,’ ‘Seascape,’ and ‘Mara des Bois.’ These varieties are known for their delicious taste, disease resistance, and adaptability to various growing conditions.
The Perfect Basket:
A good-quality hanging basket is essential for ensuring your strawberries thrive. Look for a basket that is at least 12 inches in diameter and has sufficient drainage holes. Coir or moss-lined wire baskets are highly recommended, as they provide excellent aeration and moisture retention. Be sure to hang your baskets at a height that allows for easy maintenance and harvesting, while also providing enough space for the plants to grow.
Planting Your Strawberries:
Once you’ve chosen your strawberry variety and hanging basket, it’s time to plant! Start by filling your basket with a high-quality, well-draining potting mix. Next, gently nestle your strawberry plants into the soil, spacing them evenly around the edge of the basket. Be sure to leave the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) slightly above the soil surface to prevent rot.
Caring for Your Hanging Strawberries:
Growing strawberries in hanging baskets requires a bit more attention than their ground-dwelling counterparts, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Keep the following tips in mind for healthy, flourishing plants:
- Watering: Regular watering is critical, as hanging baskets tend to dry out faster than in-ground gardens. Be sure to keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering.
- Feeding: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer at planting time, and supplement with a liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season to ensure your strawberries receive the nutrients they need.
- Pruning and Pinching: Remove any dead leaves, and pinch off runners to encourage bushier growth and a more significant harvest.
- Winter Care: In Ontario, winters can be harsh. To protect your hanging strawberries, move the baskets indoors or to a sheltered location, and allow the plants to go dormant. Regularly check for moisture, and water sparingly as needed.
Harvesting Your Strawberries:
Harvesting Your Strawberries: As your hanging strawberries ripen, you’ll be rewarded with vibrant, juicy fruits just waiting to be picked. Harvest your berries in the morning, when they’re at their sweetest, and enjoy the taste of summer in every bite.
Growing strawberries in hanging baskets in Ontario is always a delightful and rewarding endeavor. By following these tips and nurturing your plants with care, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying an abundance of beautiful, delicious berries all season long.
Happy gardening!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
