Strawberry season starting around New Hampshire
Strawberry season in New England is currently underway, though harvest windows are shifting across the state due to localized weather variations. While some farms in Hollis opened their pick-your-own operations as early as June 9, others in New London are still waiting for their crops to ripen. Despite ongoing concerns regarding drought and abnormally dry conditions, growers report that their berries have avoided significant damage so far.
Did You Know? The typical harvest window for strawberries in New England spans from mid-June to mid-July, though these dates are highly susceptible to annual weather fluctuations.
How Local Conditions Impact Harvest Timing
The timing of the strawberry harvest varies significantly depending on the specific location of the farm. At Lavoies Farm in Hollis, Patty Jared noted that spring conditions were excellent, allowing for a June 9 opening. However, recent high temperatures have accelerated the ripening process, and she estimates the harvest could conclude in the next seven to ten days.
Conversely, Spring Ledge farm in New London is experiencing a delayed start. Nick Latorre stated that a cooler-than-average spring has kept their crop behind previous years. The farm expects to open its fields within a week and anticipates remaining open through July.
Expert Insight: Understanding Agricultural Volatility
Expert Insight: The divergence between farms like Lavoies and Spring Ledge highlights the sensitivity of seasonal crops to micro-climates. While growers have successfully mitigated the risks of recent dry conditions, the history of extreme weather—including flooding and temperature swings—serves as a reminder of the fragility of these harvests. Farmers must balance early ripening caused by heat against the potential for shorter, more concentrated harvest windows.
What May Happen Next for Strawberry Growers
The remainder of the season could be defined by how individual farms manage the ongoing dry conditions. While growers have reported no adverse effects to date, the industry remains cautious given that extreme weather events have resulted in total harvest losses in recent years. If temperatures remain high, consumers may see a shorter picking season than in previous years, whereas cooler weather could extend the availability of berries into the latter half of July.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are some strawberry farms opening later than others?
According to Nick Latorre of Spring Ledge, a cooler spring has caused some crops to ripen slower than in previous years.
Has the state’s drought affected the strawberry crop?
Growers report that while much of the state is experiencing drought or abnormally dry conditions, their current crops have avoided any adverse effects.
How long will the strawberry season last?
The season typically runs from mid-June to mid-July, but this varies by farm; some may finish within the next week, while others anticipate staying open throughout July.
Are you planning to visit a local farm for this year’s harvest?