The start of the strawberry season in Northeast Ohio has been met with challenges as farmers grapple with fluctuating temperatures and their direct effects on the strawberry crop.
West Orchards, a longstanding family business dating back to 1890, is feeling the impact. Although not officially open, they are still able to offer some strawberries for sale. Ame West, the Market Manager at West Orchards, explains that they are currently spot picking, selecting only the berries that are ripe at the moment.
West says that the this season, the strawberries are smaller and less abundant than usual, largely due to overnight frosts and an extended period without rain.
The situation is similar at Rainbow Farm, just a short drive away, where Larry and Tina Klco have been tending their farm for four decades. Fluctuating temperatures have taken a toll on their strawberry harvest as well. Cold nights and the threat of freezing temperatures have impacted the growth and development of the berries, leading to a smaller yield. While both farms have experienced crop losses, they remain hopeful for a successful season.
The farmers have implemented irrigation systems to mitigate frost damage. Despite the challenges they face, they maintain a positive outlook.. As the season progresses, they continue to work diligently, tending to their plants and nurturing the remaining crop, hoping for a sweet and fruitful conclusion to the strawberry season.
Categories: Ohio, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables