[Bodlot]

Does anyone know what is causing my strawberry plants to turn brown and then die?

[Trillium]

Looks like the lower ones simply aren't getting enough, if any, water or nourishment. It takes a great deal of watering for any to reach the bottom of those barrels. They look dandy but can be a major headache to keep going.

If possible, take a watering can and try to get some water into each of the plant ports for now. When you have enough water or rainwater, give the works a solid soaking from the top which can take many many gallons over a period of time.

[sunshineband]

Looks like not enough water

If you are going to grow strawberries like this again, you might like to think about putting a drainpipe with holes drilled are regular intervals down through the centre of the soil, to help with more even watering

Also, the soil should not be only shop compost, as once that is dry it is very difficult to re-wet: a mix of this with topsoil is more effective

Hope that helps a bit

(snap, Trillium  )

[digalotty]

i agree with the ladies above

[gavinjconway]

I did spuds in a wheelie bin last year and the bottom stems produced nothing due to water shortage at the lower section.  Get a length of hose pipe and block off the end. Drill holes throughout the length of the hose and insert into the barrel.. maybe even 3 to a large barrel like you have.. every time you water the top you must attach the hose to the pipes and water each hose in the barrel well.