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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 is 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 plant 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!
About the Author:
Monica Resinger is editor/founder of Creative Gardening newsletter, a
FREE and fun interactive ezine. Each Monday you'll be able read,
answer or ask gardening questions! Also included in the ezine is a
gardening article and a seed swap. To subscribe, send a blank e-mail to:
CreativeGardening-subscribe@yahoogroups.com
To find out about Monica's other ezines, Creative Home and Creative
Home Money, please go to:
http://www.geocities.com/plantldy.geo
Make some fun and festive treats this Halloween with your little goblins. But don't leave yourself out in the graveyard with nothing to munch.
Here are some Halloween recipes that are not only for the kids. We've included some for hungry parents as well...so come join in some deliciously
scary fun!
by Monica Resinger
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