Containers for Kratky Strawberries
The container is the whole system in Kratky growing. It holds the solution, supports the plant and keeps the roots in the dark. This page covers what to look for.
What Makes a Good Container
- Lightproof. Light reaching the solution grows algae, which competes with the roots. Choose an opaque container, or paint or wrap a clear one.
- A rigid lid. The lid carries the weight of the plant and its fruit, and keeps evaporation down.
- Enough volume. More solution means slower swings in strength and pH, and more days between top-ups.
- Food-safe plastic or glass.
How Big
As a working minimum, allow about a gallon (roughly 4 liters) of solution for each strawberry plant, and more if you can. A fruiting plant in a warm, bright spot can drink a surprising amount in a week.
- Storage totes hold several plants and plenty of solution. They are the most forgiving choice.
- Buckets suit one or two plants and are easy to move.
- Mason jars are popular for herbs but small for strawberries. A half-gallon jar can carry a single plant if you top it up often. A quart jar is best kept for starting a young plant.
Net Cups
Net cups hold the plant in the lid. A 3 inch cup gives a strawberry crown enough room and holds enough clay pebbles to keep the plant steady. Cut the hole slightly smaller than the rim so the cup hangs from the lid without falling through.
Keeping Light Out
Glass jars need a cover: a sleeve, a coat of paint or a wrap of tape or foil. Cover unused holes in a lid as well. If the solution turns green, light is getting in somewhere.
Where to Put It
Keep the container out of positions where the solution will heat up, such as dark plastic in full afternoon sun on hot paving. Warm solution holds less oxygen and encourages root rot. Light-colored containers, shade on the container itself or a spot with morning sun all help.
More Kratky Strawberry Guides
This guide is one of a set covering each part of growing strawberries with the Kratky method, from choosing a container to solving problems.
