All About Strawberry Pots

All About Strawberry Pots
By Monica Resinger

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 creator of 'Homemaker's
Journal
E-Publications' where you will find many fun and informative home and
garden
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