W13 Strawberry Update: Greek Strawberry 2023/24 Season Begins Strong, and US Farmers Innovate with New Strawberry Cultivars for Better Yield and Quality

Stable Supply and Quality Expected in Greek Strawberry Season

The Greek strawberry season has begun positively, with high supply and good demand due to a mild winter. Although prices were initially higher than in 2023, they have since stabilized. Greek strawberries are well-regarded in the market for their high quality and increasing volume. Water management practices in Greece meet current standards, prompting many retail chains to shift from Spanish to Greek strawberries. The peak season for Greek strawberries is April and May, with retail chains typically offering them until mid-to-late June. Stable quantities and quality are expected over the next two to three months.

USDA-ARS Research Leads to Improved Strawberry Varieties for US Farmers

A Research Plant Geneticist at the United States Department of Agriculture - Agricultural Research Service (USDA-ARS) has developed new strawberry cultivars that improve fruit quality, yield, and disease resistance in the United States (US). The early-season 'Lumina' stands out for its glossy appearance, early yield, and disease resistance, with a planned release and patent in 2023. Mid-season varieties such as 'Flavorfest' and 'Keepsake' offer large fruit, disease resistance, and high yield, while the late-season 'Cordial' is known for its large berries, high yield, and unique flavor. These advancements aim to extend the strawberry season and provide growers with more resilient and appealing fruit options.

BAMSI Explores Wild Strawberry Cultivation in the Bahamas

The Bahamas Agricultural and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) is exploring the cultivation of wild strawberries in the Bahamas, aiming to leverage the crop's market potential and provide training for locals. Despite challenges like root and fungal diseases, the initiative has had a successful season and is considering expanding its cultivation area in 2025. The project also focuses on training BAMSI staff in basic farming techniques, although heavy rains in December have slightly impacted the harvest. Nonetheless, the quality of the strawberries remains high, indicating a promising future for strawberry cultivation in the region.