How to Grow Alpine Strawberries in Containers

Start potted Alpine strawberries in early spring with warm temperatures and spring sunshine. Choose individual 5-gallon pots or longer growing beds for strawberries. Use plastic containers with drainage holes for easy movement and good drainage.

Line the pots or containers with screen, cloth or paper towels to contain soil but allow for drainage. Mix 1 part quick-draining potting soil to 1 part organic compost for planting, to give the Alpine strawberries rich, moist and loose soil. Mix 6-24-24 granular fertilizer into the soil for quicker rooting.

Plant one Alpine strawberry seedling per 5-gallon pot, or plant several seedlings in rows in longer containers. If you plant in rows, give each seedling 15 inches of space. Plant the seedlings in holes as deep and wide as their root balls; strawberries fail in deep or shallow plantings.

Put the pots in areas with partial to full sun and good air circulation. These plants tolerate shade but bear better harvests in sunshine.

Water strawberries with 2 inches of water ever four days to keep the soil moist. Alpine strawberries don't tolerate dry soil.

Give Alpine strawberries 12-12-12 granular fertilizer in mid-season to encourage blooming and fruit production. Follow manufacturer directions in regard to quantity and application.