Want to try gardening but don’t have much space? No worries! Growing fruits and vegetables in containers is a fantastic solution. Even better, an inexpensive or old laundry basket can serve as the perfect planter.
You can use these baskets to grow a variety of produce, including:
- Potatoes
- Peas
- Lettuce
- Tomatoes
- Herbs
- Beans
- Mini cucumbers
However, one of the best ways to use a laundry basket in gardening is for growing strawberries! Even with limited space, you can enjoy fresh strawberries for smoothies, fruit salads, or as a delicious treat dipped in cream or chocolate. Here’s how to get started:
1. Prepare the Laundry Basket for Drainage
Proper drainage is key to healthy strawberry plants. Start by making a small hole in the bottom of the laundry basket to allow excess water to escape. This prevents the soil from becoming too wet, which could cause root rot.
2. Line the Basket with Burlap
To help hold the soil while still allowing drainage, line the inside of the basket with burlap. You can find burlap at most garden centers. Place it inside the basket like a liner, leaving the edges hanging over the top. This helps retain moisture while keeping the soil in place.
3. Fill the Basket with High-Quality Potting Soil
Select a nutrient-rich potting mix suitable for container gardening. Add the soil to the basket while ensuring the burlap stays in position. Once filled, trim any excess burlap so that it neatly aligns with the top edge of the basket.
4. Plant Your Strawberries
With the basket ready, it’s time to plant your strawberries! Make small slits in the burlap where you want to place the plants. Insert the strawberry plants into these openings, allowing their roots to extend through the burlap and into the soil. This setup provides them with stability and easy access to nutrients and water.
5. Space the Plants Properly
Proper spacing is essential for strong, productive plants. Avoid filling every available opening in the basket, and leave the top few rows empty. Providing 6-8 inches of space between plants encourages better airflow, reduces disease risk, and supports healthy growth.
6. Keep the Soil Moist but Not Waterlogged
Strawberries have shallow roots and need regular watering to stay healthy. Because a laundry basket has exposed sides, moisture can evaporate quickly. Check the soil by pressing your finger into it—water when it feels dry but avoid making it overly wet. Adding a layer of mulch, such as straw or wood chips, helps maintain moisture and reduces weed growth.
7. Add Flowers for a Decorative Touch (Optional)
For an extra decorative flair, consider planting flowers in the unused openings near the top of the basket. These blooms will spill over the edges, creating a colorful and eye-catching display while complementing your strawberry plants.
By repurposing a simple laundry basket, you can grow strawberries and other delicious produce, even in small spaces. Happy gardening!