How to Create a Strawberry Tower from a Barrel

Creating a strawberry tower from a barrel is a great way to grow strawberries vertically, especially if you have limited space. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build one:

Materials Needed

1. Barrel: A large plastic or wooden barrel. Plastic is often easier to work with, but wooden barrels can offer a rustic look.
2. PVC Pipe: About 4 inches in diameter, cut to the height of your barrel. This will serve as the watering system.
3. Drill with Hole Saw Attachment: For drilling holes in the barrel and PVC pipe.
4. Mesh or Screen: To cover the bottom of the barrel and prevent soil from falling out.
5. Potting Soil: Preferably a mix designed for strawberries or general vegetables.
6. Strawberry Plants: Choose everbearing or day-neutral varieties for a continuous harvest.
7. Gravel: Optional, for drainage at the bottom of the barrel.
8. Fertilizer: Suitable for strawberries.

Steps

1. Prepare the Barrel:
   • Clean the Barrel: Ensure it’s free from any harmful residues, especially if it’s a used barrel.
   • Drill Planting Holes: Starting from about 8 inches from the bottom, drill holes around the barrel in staggered rows. Each hole should be large enough to accommodate a strawberry plant, typically about 3 inches in diameter.
2. Create the Watering System:
   • Prepare the PVC Pipe: Drill small holes throughout the length of the PVC pipe. These holes will allow water to seep out evenly.
   • Position the Pipe: Place the PVC pipe vertically in the center of the barrel. This pipe will distribute water to the roots of all the plants.
3. Assemble the Tower:
   • Place Mesh or Screen: Cover the bottom of the barrel with a piece of mesh or screen to prevent soil from leaking out while allowing excess water to drain.
   • Add Gravel (Optional): A layer of gravel at the bottom can help with drainage.
   • Fill with Soil: Fill the barrel with potting soil, surrounding the PVC pipe. As you add soil, insert strawberry plants into the holes, making sure the roots are covered with soil.
4. Planting:
   • Planting in Holes: Gently insert the strawberry plants into each hole, making sure the roots are well-covered and the crown is just above the soil line.
   • Top Planting: You can also plant additional strawberries on the top surface of the barrel.
5. Watering and Care:
   • Watering: Fill the PVC pipe with water regularly to ensure even distribution. Check moisture levels frequently, especially in hot weather.
   • Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth and fruit production.
6. Maintenance:
   • Pruning: Remove dead leaves and runners to encourage healthy growth and fruiting.
   • Pest Control: Keep an eye out for common strawberry pests and diseases, and treat them promptly.

By following these steps, you’ll have a vertical garden that not only looks great but also provides a bountiful harvest of strawberries!