- Berries to be used immediately may be picked any time, but if you plan to hold the fruit for a few days, try to pick in the early morning or on cool, cloudy days. Berries picked during the heat of the day become soft, are easily bruised, and will not keep well.
- Avoid placing the picked berries in the sun any longer than necessary. It is better to put them in the shade of a tree or shed than in the car trunk or on the car seat.
- Cool them as soon as possible after picking. Strawberries may be kept fresh in the refrigerator for 3 or more days, depending upon the initial quality of the berry. After a few days in storage, however, the fruit loses its bright colour and fresh flavour and tends to shrivel.
- When you get them home, sort but do not clean them until just before you use them.
- Store the berries uncovered in the refrigerator in a shallow container.
- When ready to use, wash them quickly in cold water. Do not let them soak. Drain them well before you hull them. It’s best to use your strawberries within three days.
