Once available in Britain for just a brief period during the summer, strawberries are now a year-round fruit, thanks to imports from warmer climates. However, the varieties grown for export tend to be chosen for their ability to withstand transportation, rather than for their texture or flavour, which often results in a less tender berry with an unremarkable taste. The fact that strawberries intended for export are picked before they’re properly ripe, means that their flavour is further impaired; strawberries don’t ripen after being picked.
To enjoy strawberries at their fragrant, juicy and flavourful best it’s worth holding out for the British season – if you want to eat them super-ripe, pick-your-own is best
Read our guide on the health benefits of strawberry.
Imports are available all year round, but the British season runs from late May to early September. Strawberries are easy to grow in the garden or in a pot on a sunny windowsill – just remember to protect them from birds when the fruits appear! Learn how to grow your own strawberries from the experts.
Coded by Kateryna Ivanova