Did you know you can grow your own strawberries and beets, even if you don’t have a big yard? It’s true! All you need are some containers, a little bit of soil, and some love for plants.
Strawberries are sweet and yummy, while beets are colourful and super healthy, plus, you can even eat their leaves! You can even grow these in small spaces, like a balcony or porch. It’s easy, fun, and you’ll feel so proud when you eat something you grew yourself. Let’s get started and turn your small space into a mini garden!
But first: Interesting facts about strawberries and beets!
- Strawberries are not technically berries! Botanically speaking, they are “aggregate fruits” because their seeds are on the outside.
- Beets have been used since ancient times for their medicinal properties. The Romans, for example, used beetroot juice as an aphrodisiac.
Health benefits you get by eating strawberries and beets
Combining strawberries and beets into a smoothie results in a powerhouse of nutrition. Here’s why:
Promotes healthy digestion: Both strawberries and beets are excellent sources of dietary fibre, which supports gut health and keeps your digestive system running smoothly.How to grow strawberries and beets in a small garden
Rich in antioxidants: Strawberries are loaded with vitamin C and anthocyanins, which help fight free radicals and reduce inflammation. Beets contain betalains, powerful antioxidants that support detoxification and boost your immune system.
Supports heart health: Both strawberries and beets are heart healthy foods. Beets contain nitrates, which can help improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. Strawberries, meanwhile, are high in potassium and fibre, which are great for maintaining a healthy heart.
Boosts energy: Beets are known for their ability to improve athletic performance due to their nitrate content, which enhances oxygen flow to muscles. Pair that with strawberries for a natural energy boost!
Even if you live in an apartment with limited space, you can still grow strawberries and beets in containers! Here’s how:
Growing strawberries in containers
- Choose the right variety: For container gardening, opt for smaller, ever bearing strawberry varieties like ‘Albion’ or ‘Seascape.’ These types produce fruit all season long, making them perfect for frequent harvests.
- Container selection: Use a pot that’s at least 12 inches deep and wide. Hanging baskets or strawberry towers work well too.
- Soil preparation: Strawberries thrive in well draining, slightly acidic soil. Mix potting soil with compost for a nutrient rich base.
- Planting: Place your strawberry plants so that the crown (where the leaves meet the roots) sits just above the soil line. Overcrowding can lead to poor fruit production, so ensure proper spacing.
- Care tips:
- Water regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged.
- Position the container in full sun for at least 6 hours of sunlight daily.
- Fertilize every 4-6 weeks with a balanced fertilizer. (Compost or worm castings is great!)
- Harvest time: Pick strawberries when they are fully red, plump!
Growing beets in containers
- Container selection: Use a deep pot (at least 12 inches) to allow the beetroot to develop properly. Make sure it has good drainage holes.
- Soil preparation: Beets prefer loose, sandy soil that’s rich in organic matter. Avoid compacted soil, as it can hinder root growth.
- Planting:
- Sow beet seeds directly into the container, about 1 inch apart and ½ inch deep.
- Thin the seedlings to 3-4 inches apart once they sprout.
- Care tips:
- Water consistently to keep the soil evenly moist but not soggy.
- Beets need full sun, so place the container in a sunny spot.
- Use a nitrogen-rich fertilizer during the early growth stage, then switch to one with more phosphorus once roots start forming.
- Harvest time: Beets are ready to harvest about 7-8 weeks after planting.
Strawberry beet smoothie recipe
Now that you know how to grow your own strawberries and beets, here’s a simple recipe to turn them into a delicious smoothie:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or frozen strawberries
- 1 small beet
- 1 small banana
- 1 cup milk (any milk of your choice)
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
- Add all the ingredients to a blender.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding honey or maple syrup.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with a strawberry slice, and enjoy!
Strawberry beet smoothies are an absolute treat for both your taste buds and your body. This nutritious drink combines the sweetness of strawberries with the earthy richness of beets, creating a powerful and delicious way to start your day.
If you’re up for it, why not start growing beets and strawberries in your garden?! Hope you get to try making this smoothie.
Happy Gardening!
