{"id":4723,"date":"2013-05-13T17:22:43","date_gmt":"2013-05-13T17:22:43","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mda\/?p=4723"},"modified":"2013-05-13T17:24:54","modified_gmt":"2013-05-13T17:24:54","slug":"its-time-to-enjoy-marylands-best-produce-strawberries-mark-the-beginning-of-marylands-growing-season","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news.maryland.gov\/mda\/press-release\/2013\/05\/13\/its-time-to-enjoy-marylands-best-produce-strawberries-mark-the-beginning-of-marylands-growing-season\/","title":{"rendered":"It\u2019s Time to Enjoy \u201cMaryland\u2019s Best\u201d Produce; Strawberries Mark the Beginning of Maryland\u2019s Growing Season"},"content":{"rendered":"
\"Al<\/a>

Al Baugher of Baugher’s Orchard.<\/em><\/p><\/div>\n

ANNAPOLIS, MD \u2013 Despite cool temperatures this spring, Maryland farmers are beginning to harvest their earliest crops: asparagus, rhubarb, greens and sweet Maryland strawberries.<\/p>\n

\u201cStrawberries, asparagus, and the other early crops are starting to get into full swing,\u201d said Agriculture Secretary Buddy Hance. \u201cOur surveys show that most Marylanders want local produce. Now\u2019s the time of year they\u2019ll start having a chance to buy local fruits and vegetables.\u201d<\/p>\n

When selecting sweet Maryland strawberries, consumers should be sure to look for a full, red color, bright luster and firm, plump flesh. Strawberries do not ripen after being picked, so consumers should be sure to choose fully ripe berries. The caps should be bright green, fresh looking and fully attached.<\/p>\n

According the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) 2007 Agricultural Census, Maryland farms harvest 248 acres of strawberries on 150 farms.<\/p>\n

Harvest has been delayed this spring, due to cool weather. As of May 5, Maryland strawberries were 59 percent bloomed. According to NASS, 86 percent were blooming by the same time last year. Consumers can expect Maryland strawberries to be widely available soon. To find a location with Maryland strawberries near you, visit www.marylandsbest.net<\/a>.<\/p>\n

Strawberry Facts and Tips<\/strong><\/p>\n