Can You Grow Strawberries and Blueberries Together
Both strawberries and blueberries are very tasty, healthy but also very decorative plants, regardless if they grow on the soil patch, in a raised bed, or even in a container.
Growing two different types of plants, strawberries and blueberries included, always has its own challenges, but nonetheless, many people wonder if strawberries and blueberries can be grown together, on the same soil patch, or even in a larger container.
Published: May 16, 2022.
Strawberries vs. Blueberries: Growing Requirements
Strawberry and blueberry plants differ significantly - strawberries are smallish plants growing sometimes just a few inches off the ground, while blueberries grow in the form of bushes, depending on the variety.
Despite being such different plants, their requirements are more or less similar.
Sunny Conditions
Both strawberries and blueberries require sunny positions, although this may also depend on the varieties.
Soil Conditions
Both strawberries and blueberries prefer moist, well-aerated soil rich in organic matter with good drainage.
However, strawberries need a pH level between 5.4 and 6.8, preferably around 6.0 and 6.2.
On the other hand, blueberries will grow anywhere from 3.5 to 6.5, although their preferred pH levels are between 4.3 and 5.5, with some varieties preferring pH levels around 4 and 5.
So, if You plan on growing strawberries and blueberries in the same location, be sure to keep the soil slightly acidic, preferably around 5.5 - blueberries are not very picky, and neither are strawberries, but having a pH around 5.5 may be very helpful.
Both strawberries and blueberries can be grown in pots and containers and if your garden soil (and other growing conditions) is unsuitable for growing strawberries and blueberries, growing these fruits in containers is perhaps the simplest option.
Strawberries and blueberries don't have deep roots, although blueberries feature a deeper root system than strawberries - after all, blueberry bushes are much larger when compared with individual strawberry plants.
So, take a suitable growing container, at least 20-24 inches wide and 16 or more inches deep, fill it with good potting soil and add a little bit of sand to improve the drainage and organic matter in the form of organic fertilizers, compost, humus and similar.
If required, NPK fertilizers can be added during the strongest growth of both plants in the amounts depending on the size of the container and number of plants (usually 1 blueberry bush and 6-12 strawberry plants per single container).
Watering
Neither of these plants like soggy soil - actually, such soil can cause root rot and other issues and various diseases.
However, too little water can cause the fruits to be deformed and generally, of low quality.
So, if You plan to grow any of these plants in containers, and especially if You plan to grow them together, a constant supply of water is required - be sure to water them a few times per week and during hot summer days almost on a daily basis.
In order to save time and effort, perhaps the easiest thing to do is to set up a drip watering system, even when growing these fruits in containers - constant moisture levels (but not too much moisture/water!) are very important for healthy and tasty strawberries and blueberries.
Mulching
Mulching can protect the soil surface from wind and sun, decreasing evaporation and moisture loss.
Also, as the mulch decomposes, it feeds the plants with nutrients and keeps the soil acidic.
When strawberries are grown in the pots and containers, they are mostly grown around the edge, so that strawberries hand over the edge, away from the moist soil that can cause strawberry fruit rot.
However, a layer of mulch can prevent the strawberries from touching the moist soil, improving the fruits' quality - hence they are known as strawberries.
Pests and Diseases
Blueberries and strawberries are generally very hardy regarding various diseases, but the pests can be an issue, especially the birds.
In order to protect strawberries, blueberries, and other plants from birds, the best protection is to place protective netting over the plants that will protect the plants from birds, but also ensure that the bees and other insects have access to the flowers.
Long Story Short: Strawberries and blueberries can be grown together, just be sure to have slightly acidic, well-drained soil, rich in nutrients these plants needs - having too much nitrogen should be avoided, but potassium and phosphorous with various microelements ensure strong and healthy plants.
And when grown together, they may also be consumed together - they are both tasty, healthy fruits with specific fragrances and aroma, consumed both fresh and processed.
IMHO, fresh fruits are far better ...