Strawberries and the Kratky Method
Kratky Strawberries: Growing Strawberries Without Soil
Kratky Strawberries is an independent guide to growing strawberries with the Kratky method of hydroponics: no soil, no pumps and no electricity. We grow them ourselves and share what works, for anyone who wants to try it.
Who We Are
Kratky Strawberries is a small, independent website about one subject: growing strawberries with the Kratky method. We are growers, not a store or a nursery, and we write about what we learn from our own containers.
The Kratky method is passive hydroponics. The plant sits in a net cup above a container of nutrient solution, and as the roots drink, the falling water level leaves an air gap that gives them oxygen. Nothing circulates and nothing plugs in.
What We Do
Practical Help for Kratky Strawberry Growers
Answer Common Questions
Light, containers, nutrient solution, pH, pollination and mold, answered in plain language on one page.
Publish Step-by-Step Guides
Setup, containers, nutrients, pH, lighting, pollination, varieties and troubleshooting, each covered in its own guide.
Who This Site Is For
Kratky Strawberries is for anyone who wants to grow strawberries with the Kratky method, whatever their starting point.
- First-time growers who want a simple project with no pumps or timers.
- People without a garden growing on a windowsill, balcony or countertop.
- Hydroponic hobbyists who already grow lettuce or herbs and want to add a fruiting crop.
- Families and teachers looking for a growing project to do with kids.
If your question is about strawberries and the Kratky method, this site is written for you.
Latest from Our Blog
Why Your Kratky Solution’s pH Keeps Rising
A rising pH is normal in a Kratky container. The plant itself pushes it up as it feeds, and hard water and algae add to the effect. The fix is regular testing, small corrections and a full change of solution when it will not hold. Cause 1: The Plant Is Feeding Most of...
What EC Should Kratky Strawberries Be?
Most growers run strawberries at an EC of about 1.0 to 1.5 mS/cm, lower for young plants. Strawberries are sensitive to salt, so it is safer to be a little weak than a little strong. What EC Measures EC stands for electrical conductivity. Dissolved nutrient salts...
Masterblend for Kratky Strawberries: Mixing Ratios Explained
The widely used Masterblend recipe combines three dry ingredients in a 2:2:1 ratio by weight. For strawberries, mix it weaker than the standard recipe. Always check the instructions on the bags you buy, since they are the final word. The Three Parts Masterblend...
