What time of day is best to pick strawberries so they last longer?

0

Experienced gardeners pick strawberries at different times of the day not because they are trying to show a sign of great intelligence. As you know, each variety of berries has its own characteristics. Berries grow differently, ripen differently. That's why you need to harvest at different times of the day.

How to pick berries correctly

Undoubtedly, the main indicator is the state of the berries on the bed, not someone's recommendations. But if you want to save the entire harvested crop and have time to process it before the berries begin to spoil, follow these simple rules:

1. Berries that can be processed immediately, it is better to collect them in the evening – they will ripen and will sweeter.
2. If you need to extend the storage period of the crop, it is better to collect the berries in the morning, but after the dew has gone and the strawberries have dried.
3. More you need to arm yourself with scissors to cut off the tails. A berry with leaves and tails is stored better and longer, and thanks to pruning, it will not be remembered when picking.
4. It is better to collect overripe berries in a separate container, otherwise, starting to spoil, one berry can spoil a good part of the harvest. Mold may appear on it, which will spread to neighboring fruits.

And lastly, if possible, it is better to sort large and small berries directly during harvesting. And instead of bulky baskets, use small trays in which no more than three layers of berries can be placed.