Alpine Strawberries are enjoyable, hardy perennial strawberries that are optimal for a variety of uses including planting in perennial borders, container plantings, raised beds or even in cowboy boots as illustrated in the photo to the left.

We jazzed up these thrift store cowboy boots to donate for Cycle Oregon , but we were so captivated by the appeal and funkiness of the completed boots that  we are busy collecting more boots to plant and sell at our farm next year.

The Alpine Strawberries thrived in these boots, and continued to produce their sweet little berries all summer long.

How to create your own cowboy boot planter:

1. Find a pair of old boots and clean with soapy water; let the boots dry thoroughly.
2. Drill 5 drainage holes in the bottom of the boots.
3. Spray the inside of the boots with a waterproofing solution.
4. Paint and decorate your boots any way you desire. we used permanent markers, acrylic paint, stencils, upholstery studs and fabric. 
5. Spray the finished boots with a clear sealer.
6. Fill 3/4 of the boots with fine gravel to add weight to the boot and to provide good drainage. Plant the Alpine Strawberry plant and add soil and a slow release fertilizer. Water and enjoy!

We also used Red Drift roses, Moonshine Yarrow and a variety of sedums in other boots.