So, you’re finally thinking about growing strawberries on balcony. You’ve read up about how easy it is and you have your plants, but where do you put them? The balcony is small and space can be an issue, so you want to ensure you have enough room. You also want to ensure that you won’t use all the space, or the space of a second bathroom, which would make growing strawberries on balcony nearly impossible. Follow these guidelines for growing strawberries on balcony.
If you have a larger home than say an apartment, or even a condo building, there is no way you can have all the space needed for growing plants like strawberries. Keep in mind that even with a small amount of space, you still have rooms to plant other items as well. A small apartment garden will be limited by the amount of space available for growing, but larger spaces are possible.
When you buy strawberries or plant them yourself, choose an area above ground level and away from windows. This is true whether you are growing strawberries on balcony planters or in the ground outside your apartment. Direct sunlight will not do the plants any good. Choose a spot that gets indirect at best, such as along a wall or the edge of a patio. This way the plants can receive all the sunlight they need without being over exposed to sun rays that could burn them.
Make sure that the plants you purchase have been grown for at least a couple years before planting them. They need room to grow, but if they are too young, they may not thrive at all. Also, if the plant has not received proper nutrition during its growing period, then you’ll want to switch it out for a new one. Just add extra fertilizer as needed. Don’t let the plant sit too long because it may also become woody and need to be weeded.
The soil you choose will depend on the species of strawberry plants you are growing. If the plants you buy were seedlings, then your soil needs to be well-drained with a good amount of organic matter in it. Some varieties can be grown on organic compost as well, but you’ll need to make sure it is completely composted before putting it in your soil. Strawberries like rich soil and thrive better in it. You may want to consult a soil test to find out what kind of soil your particular plant likes best.
After the plants have been established, you can begin replanting. Keep the plants in the same place and allow them to get used to each other. After a few days, move them a little and then push them back to their original spot. Continue moving and adjusting the plants as they grow and adjust so that you won’t knock them over.
To ensure success, growing strawberries on balcony plants, keep a close eye on them. They will need extra watering, especially during the hotter months of the year. Keep an eye on the plants during hot temperatures and be prepared to water your plants if they look dry. If you are diligent about watering your strawberries, you should be able to keep them healthy through all four seasons.
One of the key things to remember when growing strawberries is that they bloom for a short time each year. It is important to prune your plants regularly to keep them growing strong. Don’t over-prune the plants. Make sure they are trimmed to the desired shape each spring. You can also hire a professional garden service to look after your plants during their off-peak season.