Who doesn’t love the tangy-sweet taste of strawberries! But good-quality strawberries are not always available in the market. So this winter, try growing them at home. Planting strawberry saplings and getting them to bear fruit is not difficult. With a few simple rules, you can grow strawberries on your terrace garden.
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Choose good saplings
Strawberry plants can be grown from seeds, but that takes longer. It’s better to buy saplings from a nursery. Make sure the sapling quality is good. If the saplings are very small, plant them in paper cups, plastic mugs, or bottles. You can also sprinkle strawberry seeds or plant saplings directly in a large pot.
Soil
Strawberries grow well in loamy soil. Prepare the soil before planting. Mix 30% soil, 30% cocopeat, and 40% organic compost to make the ideal potting mix.
Adequate watering
The soil must remain moist for strawberry cultivation. But ensure water doesn’t accumulate around the roots — that can make the saplings rot. While watering, make sure it reaches the root zone.
Organic fertilizer
For terrace strawberry plants, you can use rice-water, lentil-water, and vegetable or fruit peels. You can also compost the peels and use the organic manure in the pot. This boosts fruit production.
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Keep an eye on the plants
Strawberry plants don’t grow very big, but one plant can produce multiple runners and new saplings. They don’t require much maintenance, but check occasionally to ensure they’re growing well. The plant will start bearing fruit within two to two-and-a-half months.
