Why grow soft fruits?
Growing soft fruits in the UK is a highly rewarding experience, as the climate is well-suited to many types of berries and other fruits. Raspberries and blueberries are wonderful to eat on their own, but can be transformed into a wide range of culinary delights. Strawberries are perfect for growing in hanging baskets, providing you with a summer snack right outside your door. For more advice, see the information below.
What’s the best soft fruit to grow in the UK?
The UK's temperate climate makes it ideal for growing a variety of soft fruits. Popular choices include strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, currants, and gooseberries. These fruits thrive in fertile, well-drained soil with full sun to partial shade. You can also grow grape vines, kiwis and citrus plants in the UK by providing sheltered, sunny locations with well-drained soil and protection from frost.
How to maintain soft fruit plants
Maintaining soft fruits involves regular watering, feeding with balanced fertiliser, and pruning to remove dead wood and encourage fruiting. Provide support for climbing plants like raspberries, control weeds, and monitor for pests and diseases. Harvest when ripe and provide winter protection for tender varieties. With proper care, your soft fruit plants will thrive.
Can you grow soft fruit in containers?
Yes, there are plenty of soft fruits that can be successfully grown in containers, making them ideal for small gardens, balconies, patios, or even indoors. Common varieties suitable for containers include strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries and currants. Container-grown soft fruits may require more frequent watering and feeding than those planted in the ground, but with proper care they can produce abundant harvests.
