Pot and Basket Compost with water retaining gel

Wilko Tub and Basket Compost 20L | Wilko

Can I use something like this for edible plants? Specifically, thinking of using it in our new three tier planter, which I am hoping to grow strawberries in.

 

Hi,

Don't see why not, it probably will just be standard compost with a some water retaining gel.

You can buy those gels/crystals to add to your own compost but do follow the instructions otherwise using too much will result in the compost flowing out of the top of the container when watered !

Getting a bit late for planting strawbs for a crop this year ..?

 

Ah ok thanks just wanted to check it was ok for edibles, I haven't used the water gels before.

I've got 12 strawberry plants ready to plant up and the planter but no compost yet.
Hoping to get them planted up in the next week. Haven't had much luck with strawberries in the past to be honest, didn't know what to do with the runners, and grew them in a raised veg bed but was hoping the three tiered planter may be easier and more successful.

Will this years plants be better next year then? I'm more of a flower person!

 

Youve still got time to get them planted imho. Mine are just coming into flower. Give them some tomato food.

 

Will do, thanks @WeeTam

 

Hi,

Suggest you mix your compost with an equal measure of garden soil and mix in a bit of FishBlood&Bone or similar fertilizer.

Have tried various methods but currently find direct soil to be giving us the best results, but everyone finds their own best way.

The trouble with smaller pots etc is they need very regular watering, but in the garden soil you can easily miss a day or two.

If you have plenty of plants, try some in soil as well as your new planter.

Actually picked the first strawberry the other day, one potted up and brought into the greenhouse in January, it was a good 2" long and the smell as it was cut and the taste, just divine

 

Good idea, will try that too. Thanks for the advice.

 

I would stay away from putting any water retaining gel or any compost that has it in as it has been shown that the gels, manufactured as polymers, are biodegradable. They are not a long-term solution to water management. Their breakdown can release potentially damaging by-products into your soil. Regards sandy

 

I decided against it in the end and have used a john innes instead, will just have to make sure I keep up with the watering