Hillsborough County farmers grow enough of these delicious berries to make us the "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World"
Harvest: Strawberries
Learn all about the strawberries grown in Hillsborough County.
When are fresh Hillsborough County strawberries available at local groceries and farm stands?
The harvest begins in November and continues through late March or early April.
What type of strawberries are grown commercially here?
Varieties including Radiance, Sensation, Winterstar, and Festival.
Where are strawberries most commonly grown in Hillsborough County?
Plant City
How many acres are planted with strawberries?
About 11,000 acres.
How many pounds of strawberries are harvested?
Generally, 25,000 to 30,000 pounds per acre.
Fun fact
The Florida Strawberry Festival is held each spring in Plant City, the "Winter Strawberry Capital of the World." This celebration of everything associated with the bountiful fruit has taken place annually since 1930, except for a six-year hiatus during and immediately after World War II.
Local insight
Strawberries will stay fresh longer and taste best if you keep them in the container, place the container in a refrigerator, and wash the berries just before eating them.
Homegrown Hillsborough is also the name of the food system program coordinated by our Extension Services department.
Homegrown Hillsborough is a network of community members with the mission to grow a strong food system. The vision is to create an integrated food system that is diverse, reliable, and creates opportunity for active participation.
Homegrown Hillsborough will act as an educational and community development initiative with a focus on community nutrition, food entrepreneurship, and agricultural production that will strengthen the relationship that Hillsborough County residents have with their food.