GARDENER'S READING ROOM
Edibles

New Strawberries for 2004

Is there anything more enjoyable than a bowl of fresh homegrown strawberries in the summer?

Last year we offered a new day-neutral variety, 'Eversweet'; it proved such a success we are increasing our selection with four new varieties. 'Aromas' is a day neutral variety with large berries with very good flavor and texture. It's upright in growth habit so the fruit is easy to pick. 'Diamante' is THE new choice for premium quality fresh fruit-firm, aromatic, and flavorful.

Day neutral varieties are great if you want fresh berries throughout the summer. If you like to make jams or jellies, or to freeze a lot of fruit, a spring crop variety is best.

We're offering two new varieties, 'Independence' and 'Tillamook'. 'Independence' is unique in having variegated leaves (nice for edible landscaping). It is tolerant of diseases and varying soil conditions. The berries are medium size with good color and flavor, ripening later than most June-bearers. 'Tillamook' offers large, tasty berries with a very large yield in its second season.

We have strawberries to delight every taste bud, and we are happy to help you select the variety that best suits your needs.

By Lynn Wright, C.P.H.
Skylights Spring 2004 Vol 18, No. 2

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