STRAWBERRIES!!
They say spring and everyone in our house really enjoys them, in many forms (shortcake, in yogurt, in mixed fruit and of course jelly for those pb and js!)
Strawberries are a good source of fiber, antioxidants, minerals and vitamin C. Berries, particularly strawberries, blackberries and raspberries contain a compound called ellagic acid (known for its antioxidant properties) and that helps detoxify carcinogens (substance capable of causing cancer). Strawberries also have the highest source of ellagic acid. It is found manly in pulp and seeds of the plant. Wild or organically grown berries also supply nitrilosides, an anticancer member of the vitamin B family.
Now for the sad side of strawberries. Strawberries lead the list of most contaminated fruits sold in American supermarkets. A 2015 study in California showed that nearly 300 pounds of pesticides were applied to each acre of strawberries ( any Google search will show you this information).
What can we do about this?
WELL, we actually have a few options. PLANT STRAWBERRIES would be most ideal. But if you aren’t able to that’s alright, buy organic. Most stores offer organic strawberries, yes you will have to pay more but you won’t be getting the harmful pesticides.
Another option is to find a farmers market near you and ask them if they are organic or what they do for health of the plants. Some markets may practice organic methods, but don’t have the certification because its a long (costly) process.
The final option is to buy your berries while they are in season and freeze extras to have throughout the remainder of the year.
If you choose to plant some strawberries here is a few things to keep in mind. Spring is the best time to plant them. You can buy plants at about any garden store, or you can purchase seeds. Strawberries are self-pollinating. So, if you aren’t sure about a space for growing them but want to get started one plant will be able to produce berries.
Do not plant strawberries where okra, tomatoes or potatoes where planted the year before ( if these plants had any disease it could attack and kill your strawberry plants). Plant your starts in full sun (8+ hours a day) and about 12 inches apart (for growth).
A final tip for healthy plants is to pick the blooms off your plant(s) for the first year. That is going to help the plant get established and be ready to produce lots of berries in the second season.
All of these steps will help you have a successful strawberry patch 🙂
Until Next Time,
Julie