Strawberries

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to grow hydroponic strawberries indoors:

1. Select Strawberry Varieties:

Choose strawberry varieties that are well-suited for hydroponic cultivation. Everbearing or dayneutral varieties are often preferred for their continuous fruiting throughout the growing season.

2. Hydroponic System Choice:

Consider using a vertical or tower hydroponic system or a drip system with stacked grow pots to maximize space and allow strawberries to hang. NFT (nutrient film technique) can also work well.

3. Gather Your Supplies:

You’ll need containers or trays, coco coir growing medium, a hydroponic nutrient solution suitable for strawberries, pH and EC (electrical conductivity) meters, grow lights, and an indoor environment with temperature and humidity control.

4. Prepare the Coco Coir:

Rehydrate the coco coir by soaking it in water until it expands and becomes moist. Drain off excess water and ensure it is well-aerated before using it as the growing medium. We can supply all the coco coir growing media

5. Set Up the Hydroponic System:

Arrange the coco coir within your chosen containers or trays within the hydroponic system. Ensure that the system is properly cleaned and sterilized to prevent diseases.

6. Planting:

Start with strawberry bare root plants or young strawberry runners. Plant them in the coco coir within your hydroponic setup, ensuring that the crown is above the surface of the medium.

7. Nutrient Solution:

Prepare a hydroponic nutrient solution specifically formulated for strawberries. Adjust the pH level to be around 5.5 to 6.5, and monitor and maintain the EC level as recommended for strawberry growth.

8. Lighting:

Strawberries require plenty of light for growth and fruiting. Use high-quality grow lights such as LEDs or fluorescent lights to provide at least 12-16 hours of light per day. Adjust the light intensity and duration based on growth stages.

9. Temperature and Humidity Control:

Maintain indoor temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. Keep humidity levels around 60-70% for optimal strawberry growth.

10. Pruning and Training:

Regularly remove runners and older leaves to encourage fruit production. Train the strawberry plants to grow vertically or along a trellis to save space.

11. Pollination:

Strawberries are typically pollinated by bees. Indoors, you may need to assist in the pollination process by gently shaking the plants or using a small fan to simulate air movement.

12. Pest and Disease Control:

Monitor your strawberry plants for pests and diseases. Implement organic or hydroponic-specific pest control methods and maintain a clean growing environment to prevent issues.

13. Harvesting:

Harvest ripe strawberries when they have the desired color and are easy to pick. Hydroponically grown strawberries can produce fruit year-round with proper care.

Growing hydroponic strawberries in coco coir can yield delicious, pesticide-free berries in an indoor environment. With attention to the specific needs of strawberries and a well-controlled growing system, you can enjoy a continuous supply of fresh strawberries.