What Will Florida Strawberry Varieties Look like in the Future? A Breeder’s Perspective

Abstract

ABSTRACT A recent economic analysis predicted that the distribution of strawberry production in Florida that would maximize profit is very different from the current production distribution. An earlier start to the season in mid-November, peak production in early December and steadily decreasing production thereafter is predicted to create an improved balance of price and volume throughout the Florida market window. We propose that a combination of early short-day cultivars and low-chill day-neutral cultivars will help achieve this goal. Short-day varieties such as ‘Florida Brilliance’ produce earlier than previous varieties such as ‘Strawberry Festival’ and ‘Florida Radiance.’ Meanwhile, day-neutral varieties such as ‘Florida Beauty’ require more management but can be planted early and begin producing in mid-November with steady yields thereafter. All future varieties must have increased levels of fruit quality to drive market demand.