If you’re looking for a low-maintenance alternative to the standard garden strawberry, let me introduce you to the wild strawberry (also known as the alpine strawberry). These little gems are way heartier and much less fussy than their bigger cousins, and honestly? They don’t sacrifice a bit of flavor. If anything, they’re even more intense! Here is the lowdown on finding the perfect spot for them to thrive.
Wild strawberries love those “forest floor” vibes
Unlike your typical garden strawberries, wild strawberries aren’t total sun-worshippers. Think about where they grow in nature: tucked away under tall trees and sprawling bushes. Because of that, they really prefer a spot with partial shade. They aren’t huge fans of being blasted by the intense, direct midday sun.
Keep this in mind if you’re planning to grow them in containers on your balcony, too. A spot with dappled light is your best bet. Pro tip: You can actually use taller potted plants to provide some natural shade for your strawberries. It mimics their natural habitat perfectly!
As for the soil, you want to recreate that rich forest floor feel. That means aiming for soil that is:
- Loose and airy,
- Rich in organic matter (humus),
- Nutrient-dense, and
- Consistently moist (but not soggy!).
