Looking for a simple, hands-on activity to enjoy with your kids this spring? Try planting strawberries in a hanging basket! It’s an easy, low-maintenance way to grow something delicious together, and it doesn’t require a big yard or garden space.
Hanging baskets are especially great for strawberries because they keep the fruit off the ground and away from curious critters. They also help manage the plant’s natural tendency to spread, making this a tidy and practical option for families.
Getting started is simple. Choose a hanging basket that’s at least 12 inches wide and 8–10 inches deep, and fill it with a well-draining potting mix. In early spring, plant 3–4 strawberry plants. Look for everbearing or day-neutral varieties so you can enjoy fruit throughout the season. Be sure to plant them at the same depth as they were in their nursery pots, avoiding planting them too deep.
Once planted, hang your basket in a sunny spot where it will receive 6–8 hours of full sunlight each day. Strawberries love the sun, and it plays a big role in helping them produce sweet, juicy fruit.
Caring for your plants is straightforward and can be a great daily check-in activity for kids. Keep the soil consistently moist, especially as the weather warms. This may mean watering once or even twice a day during hotter weeks. As your plants grow, you’ll notice runners (long stems that stretch outward). Trimming these back will help the plant focus its energy on producing fruit instead of spreading.
To keep your strawberries thriving, feed them about once a month until they begin to bloom. Then comes the best part: harvest time! Pick strawberries when they are fully red for the sweetest, most flavorful bite.
Growing strawberries together is more than just gardening. It’s a chance to slow down, learn something new, and enjoy the reward of your care. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the excitement of picking (and tasting!) your very own fresh berries.
