When to Pick Strawberries?

Pick strawberries when they are fully red, with no green or white showing, ideally in the early morning or late afternoon.

Here's a more detailed guide to ensuring you harvest the perfect strawberries:

Determining Ripeness

Unlike some fruits, strawberries do not ripen after being picked. Therefore, it's crucial to harvest them at their peak ripeness.

Color: Look for a uniform, bright red color. Avoid berries with green or white tips, as these are not yet fully ripe.
Size: While size can vary depending on the variety, ripe strawberries are usually plump and full.
Texture: Gently touch the berry. It should be slightly soft but not mushy. A soft, fragrant aroma is also a good indicator of ripeness.

The time of day you pick your strawberries can also impact their quality and shelf life.

Early Morning: The best time to pick strawberries is in the early morning, after the dew has dried but before the sun has fully heated the berries. At this time, the berries are firm and cool, minimizing bruising.
Late Afternoon: Another suitable time is the late afternoon, when the sun's intensity has lessened. Again, the cooler temperatures help to prevent damage to the delicate fruit. Avoid picking during the hottest part of the day.

Gentle Handling: Strawberries are easily bruised, so handle them with care.
Use Clippers or Scissors (Optional): While you can gently twist or pull the berries from the stem, using small clippers or scissors to cut the stem about 1/2 inch above the berry can help prevent damage to the plant.
Harvest Regularly: Check your strawberry plants every few days during peak season, as berries ripen quickly. Removing ripe berries encourages the plant to produce more.

Do Not Wash Before Storing: Wash strawberries just before eating to prevent them from becoming soggy and spoiling.
Refrigerate Immediately: Place harvested strawberries in a single layer on a paper towel-lined container and refrigerate them as soon as possible. They will typically last for several days.