Usually by mid June we’re flush with local berries. Strawb varieties like ‘Totem’, ‘Rainier’ and ‘Puget Reliance’ are typically only available until early July. But this year, thanks to a long, cold spring, strawberry season got off to a slow start.
The good news is that the last couple of sunny days have done wonders for BC strawberries. Strawberry plants bloomed in abundance this year, so now that the season is underway expect loads of berries. According to the Fraser Valley Strawberry Growers Association, the time to pick or buy is now.
I headed out to Emma Lea Farms for the holiday weekend, where U Pick berries are only $1.50 per pound, and took home 15 pounds of juicy, red loot. In town, the prices are still reasonable: the strip of greengrocers along West Broadway has BC berries for $3 per pound.
The season should last for another two weeks. Then it’s time to get excited about raspberries and blueberries.
WHERE TO PICK
U Pick farms near Vancouver
RECIPES
Rachel Ray’s Strawberry Misu
Vancouver Sun‘s Strawberry Avocado Salsa
Strawberry Shortcake with Grand Marnier Strawberry Compote and Chantilly Cream, Epicurious
Martha Stewart’s Strawberry Soy Smoothie
Absolut’s Old Vic Strawberry Cocktail
Last modified: July 4, 2011
