Page 20 - ALG Issue 2 2025

STRAWBERRIES
A British Tradition, a Superfood
and a Gardener’s Delight
Few fruits capture British summertime
like strawberries. Whether served with
cream at Wimbledon, freshly picked, or
in a smoothie, they’re a national favourite
and nutritional powerhouse. Loved since
Tudor times, they were widely grown by
the 16th century. At Wimbledon, 38.4
tonnes of strawberries are consumed each
year, paired with cream, making them the
quintessential summer indulgence.
How to Grow Strawberries
Growing strawberries is simple and
rewarding for gardeners. They thrive in
well-drained soil and plenty of sunlight,
and can be grown in beds, baskets, or
containers. Here are some tips:
Choose the Right Variety: Pick
strawberries based on your desired harvest
time—early, mid, or late summer.
•
Planting: Plant in spring or autumn,
ensuring space for growth and adding
mulch to retain moisture.
•
Watering: Water regularly, especially
during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging.
•
Feeding: Use a balanced fertiliser for
healthy growth and sweeter fruit.
•
Protection: Use netting to keep birds
away from your berries.
With proper care, strawberries can
produce fruit for 3-4 seasons.
The Health Benefits of
Strawberries
Strawberries are not only delicious
but also packed with nutrients. Rich
in vitamin C, they provide more
than oranges, boosting immunity.
Packed with antioxidants, they help
reduce inflammation and oxidative
stress. Strawberries promote heart
health by improving circulation,
lowering blood pressure, and
reducing bad cholesterol. Their high
fibre content supports digestion,
and with their low-calorie count,
they’re a guilt-free treat. They also
contain ellagic acid, which is being
studied for potential anti-cancer
benefits.
1. High in Antioxidants
2. Boosts Immune System
3. Aids Digestion and Gut Health
4. Helps Regulate Blood Sugar
5. Supports Brain Health
6. Promotes Skin Health
7. May Help Reduce Inflammation
8. Supports Eye Health
9. Low in Calories and High in
Nutrients
Choosing the Right Variety for You
When selecting a strawberry variety,
consider your crop's purpose, local climate,
and growing conditions. Whether for fresh
eating, preserves, or a hardy, productive plant,
there's a variety perfect for your needs.
For Fresh Eating:
•
'Elsanta' – Known for its sweet, juicy
flavour, it’s a popular supermarket choice,
making it ideal for fresh eating.
•
'Mara des Bois' – A sweet and fragrant
variety, sought after by chefs for its
exquisite flavour and aroma.
For Jams and Preserves:
•
'Cambridge Favourite' – Its soft texture
and high pectin content make it perfect
for making jams and preserves.
•
'Gorella' – This variety is compact with
well-flavoured fruits, ideal for processing
into preserves.
For Hanging Baskets:
•
'Toscana' – With pink flowers and
delicious fruit, this variety adds visual
appeal and productivity in hanging
baskets.
•
'Rhapsody' – A compact, late-cropping
variety with firm fruit and excellent
flavour that performs well in containers.
For a Long Harvesting Season:
•
'Albion' – An everbearing variety that
produces fruit from June to October,
20 | Issue 2 2025 | Allotment and Leisure Gardener