Super Sweet

Strawberry Farms

Who knew? Well, probably most everyone who lives in Scotland. But we didn't know. And now we do. During our grocery shopping trips we have been purchasing bananas, blueberries and red raspberries. And, we have been paying attention to the country-of-origin labels. Often we see a country in Africa listed; often it is Morocco.

Lately, strawberries have been available. And, unlike the red and often tasteless strawberries back in the US, these have been delicious. Every one has been ripe and super sweet. Today, on a hill walk, we learned why the strawberries are so superior here. They are grown locally. That's right, strawberry farming is big here. We looked out from the top of a hill on our walk and saw endless miles and miles of strawberry farms (see photo). They are being grown under covers. They grow more strawberries here in Scotland than any other fruit crop, by far. Turns out that Scotland's temperate climate, with long days and sunlight, allows for slow ripening, resulting in sweeter berries. Now you know.