“Very Good” Strawberry Picking Season Begins

This year’s Upper Cumberland strawberry crop will be one of the best in recent years according to local farmers.

Strawberry season typically runs from mid-April to mid-June, as strawberries thrive in warm, sunny environments. Though the Upper Cumberland has seen some cold snaps this spring, Edwards Orchard farmer and owner Bobby Edwards said it will only have minor effects on this year’s crops.

“Strawberries bloom over such a long period of time, you can lose some blooms and still have a pretty good crop. We did have some damage, but overall it will not be affecting the amount a great deal,” Edwards said.

Despite some worries about frost damage, the strawberries will be good to go as harvesting season begins. Some farms allow visitors to pick their own fruit, and Amazin’ Acres owner and operator Jimmy McCulley said it’s a fun activity for a nice summer day.

“It is a good learning experience for young kids to come out and learn on the farm, to learn and actually see the fruit growing, see how it’s grown and where it’s produced. It’s a great family and quality time,” said McCulley.

Strawberries are very popular in Tennessee, and Edwards said that sometimes it’s hard for farms to meet the demands of their customers. As it is the first fruit to come in during the summer season, people are always anxious to get some fresh strawberries.

Edwards suggested that before you take a visit to farms, to check and see what their supply is like.