Strawberries through time: from myths to impossible mixtures
Valencia's strawberry season is here and at Campos del Abuelo you can now get your box of the best strawberries from Xàtiva . And at Campos del Abuelo we couldn't be any different.
Without a doubt one of my favourite fruits, strawberries do not go unnoticed for their colour or their flavour. Today we are going to take a journey through time to discover the origin of this red delicacy.
It all started with our well-known friends, the Romans. The strawberry was considered a delicacy only for the privileged in ancient Rome. It was said to be linked to the festivities of Adonis, a mythological figure whose death was mourned by Venus; according to legend, his tears turned into strawberries when they hit the ground.
But the strawberry that we all know today is not a coincidence, nor a whim of nature.
In the 14th century, they began to plant this fruit in the Louvre garden. They were small and smelled... well, let's say they had a 'characteristic' aroma.
But the real moment came later, when a scientific adventurer named Amédée Frézier set out for Chile and returned with some giant white strawberries. Frézier mixed these varieties with others already found in Virginia and... with a little faith on his part, the strawberry as we know it today was born , by mixing these varieties with others previously found in Virginia.
In addition to a fascinating history and legend, you should know that the strawberry is not a fruit, but a fruit! , specifically the fruit produced by the fragaria plant. In reality, the strawberry is an aggregate fruit that in turn contains tiny fruits that are those characteristic little dots or seeds.
Quique reveals the secrets of strawberry cultivation in Xàtiva
For our articles we rely on information taken from experts in the field, and in this case, we rely on the experience of Quique , a passionate farmer dedicated to growing top-quality strawberries. When it comes to growing strawberries, choosing the right environment is key to success. According to our farmer's advice, it is crucial to consider factors such as climate and soil type to obtain an optimal harvest.
Tips to keep in mind
As for climate, strawberries are quite versatile and can adapt to a variety of conditions. However, Quique warns us that the plant's growth is influenced by light and temperature . Low temperatures and short days are ideal for inducing flowering, while extreme heat can speed up fruit ripening too much. We must understand that it is best to stay away from extreme temperatures, such as frost, and strong winds.
So no polar cold or heat waves, please!
When it comes to soil, Quique advises us to find a balance . To be more precise, strawberries prefer soils with a specific composition: around 50% silica sand, 20% clay, 15% limestone and 5% organic matter . A sandy loam soil is ideal for growing this highly prized fruit. And if we want to become true strawberry growing experts, we should avoid saline soils and high levels of limestone.
To prepare the soil before planting, Quique suggests techniques such as soil disinfection and solarization to eliminate pathogens and prepare the soil properly. In addition, once the plants are established, proper watering and fertilization are essential to ensure healthy growth and good production. Periodic pruning is also important to keep the plant in optimal condition and prevent problems such as excess leaves and dead branches.
In short, growing strawberries is a task that requires careful attention to climate and soil, as well as proper planning and management.
It is clear that cultivating strawberries is not an easy task, even if the reward is obtaining a fruit as delicious as the strawberry.
Luckily, to have strawberries at home, it is as easy as accessing our website Campos del Abuelo , and Quique, our farmer, sends us a box of the best strawberries , as fresh as if we had picked them ourselves.
Xàtiva: strawberry suppliers in Spain
Spain is a giant exporter and producer of strawberries.
Did you know that Valencia is one of the main exporters of strawberries in Spain? The Huerta Norte region, and in particular the charming municipality of Godella, is an epicentre of strawberry production of exceptional quality. Here, on our own land, we grow and export the most delicious and fresh strawberries you can imagine.
Although Huelva takes the crown as the strawberry-producing province par excellence, Valencia is not far behind. Our commitment to quality and freshness has made us a key player in the strawberry export scene in Spain.
Strawberry cultivation in the Valencian Community dates back to the 18th century, when L'Horta de Valencia became its main producing region. Throughout the 19th century, this cultivation gradually expanded to other areas such as Simat and Valldigna, with L'Horta maintaining its leadership in quality and production.
During the 20th century, especially after the civil war, strawberry production experienced ups and downs, but remained an important crop in Valencia. Over time, new techniques and varieties were introduced, leading to a significant increase in production and profitability for farmers.
In the 1970s and 1980s, the strawberry industry in Valencia experienced a boom period, driven by international demand and the adoption of modern technologies. Despite facing challenges such as changing consumer preferences and adverse weather conditions, Valencian producers continued to stand out for the quality of their strawberries and their ability to adapt to market challenges.
At Campos del Abuelo, we are proud to say that our strawberries reach every corner of Spain, bringing with them the freshness and exceptional quality that characterise all our products.
Explore the benefits and properties that our strawberries can bring you
Strawberries are known for their irresistible flavor and vibrant red color, but they are much more than a delicacy for the palate, they are a true nutritional gem.
This red fruit, which was already considered a delicacy by the Romans, has a high iron and magnesium content. They are rich in potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, copper and silicon.
Strawberries are also an excellent source of vitamins C, K and folate , covering more than 200% of the daily vitamin C requirement in just 200 grams. They also contain significant amounts of B vitamins.
In words that we can all understand… They prevent cardiovascular problems, helping to reduce cholesterol. They are a natural aspirin, with anti-inflammatory properties that help in cases of rheumatism and arthritis, promote eye health, help keep the brain young and combat excess uric acid.
Strawberries are not only a real treat but are also an abundant source of essential nutrients.
Now you have more reasons than ever to add this delicacy worthy of Roman emperors to your diet, and now you can buy strawberries direct from the farmer.
The importance of bees in strawberry cultivation
Bees! We all know the importance of bees and their fundamental role in pollination . With strawberry flowers, their importance is no less important; without their presence, strawberry production could be affected, due to the work they do in passing pollen from one flower to another.
What many of you may not know is that researchers have developed techniques to improve strawberry cultivation , ensuring that bees pollinate the entire plantation. This research has been carried out in São Paulo, Brazil, where it has been shown that the presence of these fabulous insects improves the quality and shape of strawberries. Due to this fact, additional research is evaluating the effect of pesticides on bees, ensuring their survival.
Hepatitis A alert on imported strawberries!
Hepatitis A alert in strawberries imported from Morocco ! Don't worry, despite the commotion caused by this news, this is an isolated case , and all infected strawberries have been withdrawn from the market.
Hepatitis A is an infection that can be transmitted through the ingestion of contaminated food. Thanks to our control systems, it has been identified before strawberries reach the market.
And as for our strawberries, you can be sure of their origin! Our quality standards are based on traditional cultivation and the use of organic materials, just as our grandparents have always done.
Where to buy Xàtiva strawberries online?
In Campos del Abuelo we have fruits and vegetables directly from the farmer without post-harvest chemicals. On our website you can buy spring onions from 1 KILO, as well as other seasonal fruits and vegetables .
Visit our online fruit and vegetable store to choose the best seasonal products.
