The Best System for Planting Strawberries in Tropical Weather

Tropical Locations

• Tropical locations such as Hawaii's Zone 11 feature long summers, extreme humidity and temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer. Although these bright, warm summers seem ideal for fruit growth, they actually lead to moldy berries and strawberry plants. The "Honolulu Star Bulletin" notes that strawberries grow outdoors only in the mountains of Hawaii.

Pots and Cultivars

• Grow strawberries in pots in these areas to protect them from humidity. Use small pots for individual plantings or larger containers and beds for multiple plantings. Give each plant 3 gallons of space, and choose only pots with drainage holes. Bill Sidnam of the "San Diego Union Tribune" recommends choosing heat-tolerant varieties for warm, tropical areas.

Soil and Planting

• Strawberries require crumbly, fertile soil, and do well in a mixture of organic compost and potting soil. Fill the pots three-quarters full of soil and add 6-24-24 fertilizer. Plant strawberries in the spring, deeply enough to just cover their root balls; these plants don't appreciate deep or shallow plantings.

Maintenance

• Put strawberry pots in indoor locations with full sunshine to protect them from outdoor humidity and give them enough light for growing. Strawberries won't bloom or bear their fruit in shaded locations. Water them with 1 to 2 inches of water every week to maintain soil moisture, and give them 12-12-12 fertilizer at midseason.