When Are Strawberries in Season?
In the United States, strawberries are typically in season from late May through early August. However, the season can start as early as March in some parts of the country and continue through September in others. Factors like weather conditions, soil quality, and farming practices can all impact when strawberries are at their prime, so it’s always a good idea to check with local farmers or markets to find out when you can expect to find the best berries.
Understanding Strawberry Seasons
When it comes to enjoying fresh, juicy strawberries, timing is everything. Knowing when strawberries are in season can help you make the most of their flavor and nutritional benefits.
Climate Impact
Strawberries are a seasonal fruit, with peak harvest times varying depending on the climate. In general, strawberries thrive in cool, moist environments, making spring and early summer the prime season for this fruit. However, the specific timing of strawberry season can vary depending on the climate of the region where they are grown.
In warmer climates, such as California, Florida, and Texas, strawberries may be available as early as January or February and can continue to be harvested into the summer months. In cooler climates, such as the Northeastern United States, strawberry season typically begins in late May or early June and lasts for several weeks.
Varieties Impact
The specific variety of strawberry can also impact when they are in season. There are three main types of strawberries: June-bearing, everbearing, and day-neutral.
June-bearing strawberries are the most common type and typically produce fruit for two to four weeks in late spring to early summer. Everbearing strawberries produce fruit twice a year, in the spring and fall, while day-neutral strawberries produce fruit throughout the growing season.
The type of strawberry you choose can impact when they are in season and how long they will be available. For example, if you want to enjoy fresh strawberries throughout the summer, you may want to choose everbearing or day-neutral varieties.
Strawberry Season in North America
If you are wondering when is the best time to enjoy fresh strawberries in North America, it depends on where you are located. Generally, the strawberry season in North America begins in late April or early May and lasts until late June or early July. However, the season can vary depending on the region and climate.
United States
In the United States, the strawberry season typically starts earlier in the southern states and moves northward as the weather warms up. The peak season for strawberries in the US is usually in May and June, but it can vary by state.
For example, in California, the largest producer of strawberries in the US, the season can start as early as January and lasts until September. In Florida, the season starts in December and lasts until April. In contrast, states like Maine and Michigan have a shorter season that typically runs from June to July.
Click here for specific strawberries’ season for each of the 50 states
| State | Season |
|---|---|
| Alabama | April – June |
| Alaska | July – August |
| Arizona | November – May |
| Arkansas | April – June |
| California | January – September |
| Colorado | June – July |
| Connecticut | June – July |
| Delaware | May – June |
| Florida | December – April |
| Georgia | April – June |
| Hawaii | Year-round |
| Idaho | June – August |
| Illinois | June |
| Indiana | May – June |
| Iowa | June |
| Kansas | May – June |
| Kentucky | May – June |
| Louisiana | April – June |
| Maine | June – July |
| Maryland | May – June |
| Massachusetts | June – July |
| Michigan | June – July |
| Minnesota | June – July |
| Mississippi | April – June |
| Missouri | May – June |
| Montana | June – August |
| Nebraska | June |
| Nevada | May – June |
| New Hampshire | June – July |
| New Jersey | May – June |
| New Mexico | May – June |
| New York | June – July |
| North Carolina | April – June |
| North Dakota | July |
| Ohio | June |
| Oklahoma | May – June |
| Oregon | May – July |
| Pennsylvania | June |
| Rhode Island | June – July |
| South Carolina | April – June |
| South Dakota | June – July |
| Tennessee | May – June |
| Texas | December – May |
| Utah | June – July |
| Vermont | June |
| Virginia | May – June |
| Washington | May – June |
| West Virginia | June |
| Wisconsin | June – July |
| Wyoming | July – August |
Canada
In Canada, the strawberry season is generally shorter than in the US due to the colder climate. The season typically starts in late June or early July and lasts until mid-August. However, the season can vary depending on the region and weather conditions.
In Ontario, the largest producer of strawberries in Canada, the season usually starts in mid-June and lasts until early July. In Quebec, the season typically starts in late June and lasts until mid-July. Other provinces, such as British Columbia and Nova Scotia, have a shorter season that typically runs from late June to early August.
Strawberry Season in Europe
United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the strawberry season typically runs from May to October. However, this can vary depending on weather conditions and the specific region where the strawberries are grown. Some farms may start selling strawberries as early as April, while others may continue selling them through November.
During peak season, you can find fresh strawberries at local farmers’ markets, supermarkets, and pick-your-own farms. If you’re looking for a fun activity, consider taking a trip to a pick-your-own farm where you can pick your own strawberries straight from the fields.
Spain
Spain is one of the largest producers of strawberries in Europe, with the majority of the production taking place in the province of Huelva. The strawberry season in Spain typically runs from January to June, with peak season being from March to May.
During peak season, you can find Spanish strawberries in supermarkets and farmers’ markets throughout Europe. Spanish strawberries are known for their sweetness and juiciness, making them a popular choice for eating fresh or using in desserts.
Strawberry Season in Asia
Japan
Japan is known for its high-quality strawberries, which are often grown in greenhouses. The Japanese strawberry season typically runs from December to May, with peak season falling between January and March. During this time, you can find fresh strawberries at local markets, supermarkets, and fruit stands throughout the country.
One popular variety of strawberry in Japan is the Amaou strawberry, which is known for its large size and sweet, juicy flavor. Another popular variety is the Tochiotome strawberry, which is smaller than the Amaou but equally delicious.
China
China is one of the largest producers of strawberries in the world. The Chinese strawberry season typically runs from December to May, with peak season falling between March and May. During this time, you can find fresh strawberries at local markets, supermarkets, and fruit stands throughout the country.
One popular variety of strawberry in China is the Zhangjiakou strawberry, which is known for its large size and sweet, juicy flavor. Another popular variety is the Yunnan strawberry, which is smaller than the Zhangjiakou but equally delicious.
Strawberry Season in Australia
In general, the strawberry season in Australia runs from around June to November. However, this can vary depending on where you are in the country. For example, in Queensland, the season can start as early as May and run until December. In Victoria, the season typically runs from October to May.
During the peak season, you can expect to find a wide variety of strawberries available at your local supermarket or farmers’ market. Some of the most popular varieties grown in Australia include Albion, Festival, and Red Rhapsody.
It’s worth noting that the quality of strawberries can vary depending on the time of year. Strawberries grown in the peak season are generally sweeter and juicier than those grown outside of the peak season. However, you can still enjoy strawberries year-round by choosing frozen or canned varieties.
Strawberry Season in South America
South America is a major producer of strawberries, with Brazil and Chile being the largest producers in the region. The strawberry season in South America varies depending on the country and the climate conditions.
Brazil
Brazil is the largest producer of strawberries in South America, with a production of over 200,000 tons per year. The strawberry season in Brazil typically runs from August to December, with the peak season being from September to November. The climate in Brazil is favorable for strawberry cultivation, with mild temperatures and low rainfall during the strawberry harvest season.
The strawberries produced in Brazil are of high quality and are exported to various countries around the world. The main varieties of strawberries grown in Brazil are Camarosa, Sabrosa, and Oso Grande.
Chile
Chile is the second-largest producer of strawberries in South America, with a production of over 100,000 tons per year. The strawberry season in Chile typically runs from September to December, with the peak season being from October to November. The climate in Chile is also favorable for strawberry cultivation, with mild temperatures and low rainfall during the strawberry harvest season.
The strawberries produced in Chile are known for their sweetness and flavor and are exported to various countries around the world. The main varieties of strawberries grown in Chile are Festival, Albion, and Camarosa.
Nutritional Information for Strawberries
| Nutrient | Amount per 100g | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 32 kcal | 2% |
| Carbohydrates | 7.68 g | 3% |
| Fiber | 2 g | 8% |
| Sugars | 4.89 g | – |
| Protein | 0.67 g | 1% |
| Fat | 0.3 g | 0% |
| Vitamin C | 58.8 mg | 98% |
| Vitamin A | 12 IU | 0% |
| Folate | 24 µg | 6% |
| Potassium | 153 mg | 4% |
| Manganese | 0.386 mg | 19% |
| Antioxidants | High | – |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet. Data from USDA.
Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on factors such as the variety and ripeness of the strawberries. Strawberries are known for being high in vitamin C and antioxidants, making them a healthy and delicious addition to your diet.
How to Identify Fresh Strawberries
When it comes to identifying fresh strawberries, there are a few things you should look for to ensure that you’re getting the best quality fruit. Here are some tips to help you identify fresh strawberries:
1. Look for Plump Berries
Fresh strawberries will be plump and firm to the touch. Avoid berries that are soft or mushy, as they may be overripe or starting to spoil.
2. Check the Color
The color of fresh strawberries should be bright red with a glossy sheen. Berries that are dull or have a greenish tint may be underripe and lack flavor.
3. Smell the Berries
Fresh strawberries should have a sweet, fragrant aroma. If the berries have no smell or smell sour, they may be past their prime.
4. Check the Stem
The stem of a fresh strawberry should be green and intact. If the stem is brown or missing, the berry may have been mishandled or stored improperly.
5. Taste the Berries
Of course, the best way to determine if a strawberry is fresh is to taste it! Fresh strawberries should be sweet and juicy with a slightly tart flavor. If the berry tastes bland or sour, it may be past its prime.