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.

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