One of the greatest pleasures of summer is undoubtedly the abundance of small fruits. What could be more enjoyable than biting into a juicy Quebec strawberry or making your own homemade raspberry jam? In addition to being packed with vitamins and antioxidants, small fruits burst with flavor. Although they are easily found in grocery stores or at local producers' stands, it is very pleasant to have your own small fruits within reach. Don't have much space to plant them in the ground? No problem: grow your favorite small fruits in containers!
Fruit shrubs are ideal for container gardening. You can have beautiful harvests, even surprising ones! Many producers and hybridizers have created more compact varieties, similar to vegetables, specifically to allow those with limited space to grow small fruits at home. Your Passion Jardins retailer can guide you to the best choices for you.
What to plant?
Hanging planters and perforated pouches to hang on the wall containing strawberries have been seen for a long time. You can also plant raspberries, blueberries, and even haskap berries in containers in your yard or on your balcony. Some cultivars of currants, blackcurrants, and gooseberries also grow very well in pots. Want to try something new? Why not kiwi? Of course, it's not the kiwi we know, but a Nordic variety whose small fruit is delicious and has an edible skin. Be careful, you need at least two plants to get fruit. Inquire with your in-store specialist.
Type of pots
Plastic or ceramic pots can work very well for fruit trees. Make sure to have drainage holes at the bottom so excess water can drain easily. Fabric containers like Smart pots offer good results and protect the roots of shrubs during winter thanks to the air bubbles contained in the fabric walls.
Soil composition
For your small fruit containers, use the Fafard soil mix for small fruits and acid-loving plants.
Make sure to fertilize regularly with the natural fertilizer for small fruits and acid-loving plants (4-1-4) from Fafard to have a good harvest. Your fruit shrubs will have everything they need to produce beautiful, tasty fruits.
Another advantage of growing your small fruits in containers is that you can move them to different places on your property. Choose a sunny and wind-protected spot to place your pots. If you have to leave for a few days on vacation and no one can come to water them, move your containers to the shade to help them dry less quickly.
Attention! Everyone loves small fruits, birds too! To prevent your precious harvest from being devoured by little flying prowlers, equip yourself with nets designed for this purpose!
Happy harvesting and most importantly: enjoy your meal!
Tips and advice
