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Harvest of the Month
​April

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Meet the Strawberry: A Spring Sensation!

In California, strawberries signal the start of berry season. Eat them by the handful to stain your mouth red or tuck them away for a late afternoon pick-me-up.

The Secret Lives of Strawberries

strawberries on persons hand
    • Rosy Red: Strawberries come in all kinds of varieties, from funky-shaped Chandlers to semi-firm Sweet Anns. They typically have red skin dotted with white seeds, although some are brighter and glossier than others.
    • Drops of Delight: Most strawberries are teardrop-shaped, with a wide stem end crowned with small green leaves and a narrow rounded tip. They can be smaller than a nickle or bigger than a thumb! You may also find round strawberries, wedge-shaped strawberries, or long conical berries, depending on the variety.
    • Simply Sweet: Strawberries are naturally sweet and juicy. They have soft flesh and a convenient leaf handle to hold while you eat them. Picked fresh and still warm from the sun, they smell like spring heaven!
    • Prime for Picking: In California, strawberry season can start as early as February and run through October. They’re best in the spring and summer.


Meet a Strawberry Farmer:
​Better Produce




Better Produce is a family-owned fruit and vegetable grower, shipper, and distributor. Juan Cisneros and his family also work with other farmers to grow conventional and organic produce like berries, peppers, and squash in Santa Maria, California.

Where to Find Better Produce


Eat More Strawberries!

Strawberries are a seriously healthy snack: They give a boost to your brain, heart, and more. Here are a few ways to sneak more of them into snack time.

  • Strawberry Snack Ideas
    • Berry ‘Bobs: Thread strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, and other fruits onto skewers to make sweet and simple berry kabobs.
    • Strawberry-Banana Smoothie: Is there a more perfect combination than strawberry and banana? We think not! Toss some of each into a blender with ice and water, milk, or a dairy-free alternative, then blend it up for a refreshing treat.
    • Stuffed Strawberries: Hollow out your strawberries from the wide end (don’t forget to eat the centers!) and fill them with peanut butter or almond butter. Sprinkle the filling end with nuts for extra crunch.
    • Strawberry Parfait: Layer plain Greek yogurt, strawberries, and granola in a cup, making two layers of each ingredient. Drizzle with honey and enjoy.

Contact Us

For more info on The FruitGuys Farm-to-School Program, contact Carol Stewart at [email protected]

For general info, School Bulletin suggestions, or questions about your Nutrition Education materials, contact The School Team at [email protected]

fruitguysfarmtoschool.com