When to Expect Virginia Strawberries
The first fruit of berry season, strawberry picking is a beloved spring tradition here at Chiles Peach Orchard! During the early months of the year, we protect our strawberry field from frost and look forward to the first tiny blossoms emerging.
Virginia strawberries usually start to ripen in late April and can last through May. The exact date will vary with each year’s weather, so check picking availability on our Pick-Your-Own-Fruit page.
From Blossoms to Berries: the Strawberry’s Life Cycle
In early April, the berries enter the beginning stages of their growing cycle. After sprouting, flowers start blooming, then petals drop off as baby berries form. Typically, a nice white blossom is 30 days from becoming a ripe, red strawberry.
Pick Your Own Strawberries
Did you know that strawberries won’t ripen after being picked? That’s right: a green strawberry will stay green when you take it home, so leave them be and hold out for those gorgeous red strawberries.
Strawberries keep longer when picked and handled correctly.
To pick your own strawberries like a pro:
- Part the leaves with your hands to look for hidden berries that are fully red and ready for harvest.
- Grasp the stem just above the berry between your forefinger and thumbnail, then pull with a slight twisting motion.
- With the stem broken about one-half inch from the berry, allow it to roll into your palm.
- Gently place the fruit into your containers, then repeat the picking process with both hands.
A smushed berry is a sad berry. Strawberries are tender, and can bruise or discolor when squeezed. Always handle your strawberries gently, whether you are picking them, placing them in the container, or carrying filled containers.
Tips for picking strawberries without bruising:
- Don’t overfill your containers or try to pack the berries down.
- Remember not to stack strawberries more than 5 inches deep.
- Be careful that your feet and knees do not damage plants or fruit while picking.
Fresh Strawberry Pie
There are countless ways to enjoy orchard-fresh fruit! A homemade dessert with just-picked strawberries is a memorable treat for the whole family.
How to Store Strawberries
Sooner is better than later when enjoying strawberries. If possible, eat strawberries within 2 days of bringing them home.
To keep berries fresh for as long as possible:
- Store them in the refrigerator.
- Choose a storage container that allows airflow.
- Spread them out so that the berries are not all on top of each other (if your fridge space allows).
- Wash the berries right before you plan to eat them. Washing berries and then storing them in the fridge can lead to mold, and nobody wants that!
Can I eat the strawberry tops?
Yes! The entire strawberry is edible: leaves, stem, and all. The green part may not be the tastiest, but that doesn’t mean you should toss those tops! Use strawberry tops to infuse water, make kombucha, or add them to a healthy smoothie.
How to Freeze Strawberries
The best strawberries for freezing are dark red, firm, and fully ripe.
- Remove stem and caps.
- Wash and drain the berries carefully. Do not soak in water, or the strawberry will lose flavor and nutrients. Do not add sugar.
- Freeze strawberries individually in a single layer on cookie sheets.
- After they’re completely frozen (about 24 hours), place into freezer containers or freezer bags.
Sweet Moments in the Patch
Year after year, we love seeing friends from near and far come out for pick-your-own strawberries at Chiles Peach Orchard! Thanks for sharing these special moments with us that make every Virginia strawberry season so special.
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