By Clint Thompson
The Florida strawberry season has already been deemed successful with its sensational quality. That sweet success is likely to continue as the market continues to support strong supply.
“Beautiful, absolutely beautiful,” said Kenneth Parker, executive director of the Florida Strawberry Growers Association (FSGA_, regarding this year’s crop. “I would suggest that the cooler temperatures have definitely been really good for the size, color and the flavor. Florida’s varieties are historically better than anybody else’s. This year they’re just exceptional. The varieties have excellent size, color, flavor; everything that a consumer wants.
“We love this cool weather here. If you could draw it up, you would ideally say 72 to 75 degrees (Fahrenheit) days and 52 to 55 degrees (F) nights. That would be perfect. I think we’re probably closer to ideal temperatures this year without the big heat wave. Obviously, you never know what the future holds, but so far it’s been steady. I don’t know if you’ve been to the store, but the quality is just incredible.”
Acreage
Strawberries have emerged as Florida’s No. 1 specialty crop. It has allowed growers to increase acres this year to meet increasing demand. There is an estimated 14,000 acres of strawberries in Florida.
“With the unfortunate decline of the citrus industry, strawberries are the most valuable fruit or vegetable in the state of Florida now,” Parker said. “The popularity of the fruit and the demand continues to rise. Our growers are taking the risk and doing everything they can to expand and match that supply and demand curve.
“Demand has been strong for a number of years now. I think consumers are making healthier choices. They’re wanting to provide fresh fruits and vegetables for their kids and their families. We see that in our increase in acreage. We’ve increased in acreage, because we’re trying to meet demand, and demand is still outpacing supply.”