|
News
Strawberry
Season is Almost Here
Posted 9 June 2009
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey reminded Iowans that
mid-June to early-July is prime strawberry season and encouraged Iowans
to take advantage of the many berries grown in Iowa.
“Despite the wet and cool weather this year that has pushed the
strawberry harvest to be slightly later than it typically is, many
growers are still reporting a good crop,” Northey said. “Don’t
delay in visiting your local ‘you pick’ operation or farmers market
since the prime season for strawberries lasts a few weeks here in Iowa.”
Strawberries are one of the world’s most popular fruits being consumed
by 94% of all U.S. households. Not only are
strawberries, one of the most popular fruits but they are also one of
the healthiest fruits you can eat. Strawberries are a great
source of Vitamin C. One serving of just eight strawberries will
provide 140% of the U.S. Recommended Daily Allowance of Vitamin C.
Iowa growers receive nearly $3.5 million in gross income as a result of
strawberry production in the state, according to the 2001 study done by
the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture. The 2007 Census
of Agriculture shows there are 150 strawberry farms in Iowa, compared
with 115 in 2002. Iowa varieties include Tristar, Eariglow,
Jewel, and Honeoye.
Fresh strawberries can be picked as part of a family outing at one of
the many “You Pick” operations around the state, or when shopping at
your local farmers market.
It is good to call before going to a “You Pick” farm, especially this
year, to make sure fields aren’t too wet to access the strawberries.
To get the best berries:
* look for strawberries with their green caps intact
* strawberries will not continue to ripen after they
are picked and are best when eaten within a few days
* the prime strawberry season only lasts 2-3 weeks
in Iowa, so don’t delay in getting the best Iowa has to offer
* to find local strawberry farms in your area visit here
* while there, view the Fresh Facts brochure “A
Berry Good Idea!” for tips on picking and storing fresh strawberries as
well as a variety of recipes
“Generally being the first fresh fruit of the summer, strawberries get
us ready for a long season of delicious and healthy local treats,”
Northey said.
To obtain more information or for further assistance, please contact
Tammy Stotts with the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land
Stewardship’s Ag Diversification and Market Development Bureau.
She can be contacted via phone at 515-281-7657 or email at tammy.stotts@iowaagriculture.gov. |
|
Let us know what you think!
|
Please Support this
Site by Clicking on Our Sponsor's Ads
|
