Many strawberry growers across the state of Iowa are predicting a bumper crop and encouraging Iowans to take advantage of these delicious, fresh berries by visiting a local strawberry patch or a local farmers market.

“The mild winter and wet spring have created a nearly ideal growing situation for fruits and vegetables in Iowa and strawberries are leading the way. Growers across the state are reporting tons of blooms,” said Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey.

Strawberry season is short. In about 30 days they go from bloom to fruit and are best consumed within a few days of picking.

“Fresh picked strawberries are a delicious treat that often kickoff the growing season . Visiting a local farmers market or going to a you-pick farm is a great way to find berries that can be enjoyed fresh, used in baking or preserved as jellies or jams,” Northey said.

Support a local grower and treat your family to a fun-filled trip to the strawberry patch and make memories that will last a lifetime. If visiting a strawberry patch, be sure to call or check the website for their harvest information. While you’re there you may just find blueberries or raspberries as well.

You can find strawberry growers by visiting our Fruit and Vegetable Farms Directory  or on the Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association “farm search” page.

Source: Iowa Department of Agriculture

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