Production quality is tracking well for the current strawberry season, with bright red, glossy fruit expected to remain a key driver of retail demand. While most plantings are still produced in traditional raised outdoor beds, more growers are shifting to table-top production under cover.
In this system, plants are grown in elevated containers rather than in-ground beds. The approach allows for cleaner fruit, reduced disease pressure, and improved harvesting conditions, as workers no longer need to bend to pick. Newer genetics, such as Cabrillo, are now being adopted in these systems. Cabrillo is a day-neutral variety, meaning flowering and fruiting are not triggered by day length. This extends the harvest window and supports more predictable yields for commercial operations.
As a result of expanded table-top production, the local strawberry season is forecast to continue through late autumn.
United Fresh advises produce department managers to coordinate with buyers and suppliers to maintain a consistent in-store supply. Strawberries are highly perishable and show limited ripening after harvest, so the organisation recommends frequent, smaller orders rather than large bulk consignments.
Cold-chain management remains central to maintaining quality. The product should be kept refrigerated unless turnover is rapid. Fruit displayed at retail should be fully red and glossy with fresh green calyxes. Berries with white tips or pale patches are not recommended for display.
The shift toward protected table-top production reflects broader efforts among growers to manage disease pressure, extend the productive season, and stabilise supply for retail programs.
Source: SupermarketNews
