Traditionally, strawberry season runs March to May. But not at Franklin's Farm this Winter! The farm is using a particular growing method and variety of berry to bring delicious strawberries to the Boro even in the cold.
Bill Renz, farm manager and owner, says, “This type is an older variety with super sweet flavor and tender flesh. They are almost obsolete commercially because they don’t ship well or last long in heat.”
According to Renz, strawberries thrive in cool weather and will actually try to bloom all winter— but left exposed to the elements, it prevents them from blooming. This is where the ‘Double Hoop Loop’ system Franklins is using comes into play. It keeps the frost fabric off the plant and prevents the berries from being damaged while protecting them from the cold temperatures.
When the temperatures drop drastically, they use a double layer of fabric to ensure their protection. Installing the covers is costly and labor intensive— sand bags have to be placed every five feet to keep wind from getting under the fabric.
Another issue Renz shares is the factor of pollination. The covers can “deter the pollinators from the plants resulting in low fruit set.” Renz says thankfully when they do uncover the plants, and the warmth of the sun sets in, wild bees and honeybees flock to the plants.
There are many challenges to growing this time of year, and Renz says it’s hard to know what to expect, but he seems to welcome the challenge.
One acre at the farm is currently dedicated to the winter strawberries, which are picked and ready but selling out fast! Keep an eye on the Franklin Farm's Facebook page for announcements. They typically let you know when they have a fresh harvest and are fully stocked or running low so you can hurry on over!
Franklin's Farm is located at 10610 Hwy 301 S, Statesboro, Ga., and open Monday-Saturday from 9am-6pm and Sundays from 11am-6pm.
For more information, visit georgiacitrus.com/farmstand or call 912-259-9887.
