Get into gardening

There's nothing better on a hot summer's day than a bowl of strawberries, and they taste even better when you have grown them yourself. Not only is it fun, but it's quick, easy and cheap too.

When to plant?

March – May

When to harvest?

May – August

Where to plant?

Container or hanging basket in full sun, but if this is not possible; then part shade is also fine.

What to do:

Fill your container with compost, about 1cm away from the top. Plant 5 to 6 plants at soil level, packing the compost firmly around the base of each.

Strawberries are thirsty plants, so give them a good drink after planting and then keep watering every day.

As soon as the strawberries turn a rich red colour, they're ripe. Pick them straightaway as they often begin to rot quickly.

Throughout the following year, your strawberry plant should continue to grow new fruit. However, if you renew your crops, they'll grow better.