Fresh for the picking

GET READY FOR STRAWBERRY SEASON!

After the winter we’ve had here in Hampton Roads, it seems like the warmer weather couldn’t arrive quick enough! Fresh fruits and veggies are most likely the last thing on your mind these days, but berry season is just a month or two away, and everyone knows that there’s nothing like fresh strawberries! Those juicy red berries are a sure sign that warm weather has arrived! One of our favorite berries, are Chandler Strawberries. And, did you know that Chandler is the leading strawberry variety sold in supermarkets. They produce fruit that is conically-shaped ranging in size. When ready to be picked, the berries are red, firm, juicy, sweet and tangy. The number of berries per plant will depend on the size of the plant and overall condition of the roots and stems. Chandler strawberry plants drop their fruits in late May or early June.

Chandler strawberry plants thrive in the southern states during the spring. They require full sunlight, sufficient water and well-drained soil; too much water can cause the roots to rot. We recommend planting in single rows about 8 to 14 inches apart or in double rows that are 1 to 2 feet apart. Healthy, mature plants have shallow roots and stems that grow to about 8 inches tall. Strawberry plants can also grow from seed or clippings; plant them in small containers with fresh soil. 

Bring your little gardeners out tomorrow, Saturday, March 29 at 11:00am to create a strawberry jar using Chandler strawberries at our STRAWBERRY JAR WORKSHOP FOR KIDS >>

And if you’re interested in local berry-picking this spring, follow the link below to find our where you can pick your own sweet berries this season. LOCAL STRAWBERRY PICKING >>