How to Grow and Enjoy the Best Berries

To celebrate National Gardening Week from June 5-11, we’ve gathered some tips on growing strawberries so you can make the most of this favorite summertime fruit. As the home of America’s Farm Fresh, we know a thing or two about fresh fruit!

Step One: Plant

Any good harvest begins with planting your strawberries correctly, and at the right time. Our Bob Evans Farm and Garden Manager, Chris Williams, recommends planting strawberries in early spring around the last frost of winter. “To get the best results, I spread a compost pile throughout my garden before tilling and planting my strawberries. To avoid the sun’s heat, plant in the early morning or late evening.”

Step Two: Harvest

After your strawberries have sprouted, it’s time to harvest your hard work. According to Chris, “The first tale-tell sign for when to begin harvesting strawberries is when they’re a vibrant shade of red. I also recommend tasting your berries to ensure they’re fully ready – the better they taste, the quicker you can eat them.” Once your strawberries are ready, it’s time to pluck away! Pull the stem off, wash with cold water (never hot) and eat them fresh out of the garden or store away for later.

Step Three (Final step!): Store and Enjoy!

If you want to store your strawberries for later, Chris says, “storing strawberries in the refrigerator will be the best way to preserve them.” Arrange your berries in a shallow container, removing any that are damaged, and covering them loosely will help them stay fresh longer.

For fresh strawberries without the hassle, visit Bob Evans Restaurants to enjoy our NEW Fresh Berry Menu starting at $5.99, with vine-ripened, hand-picked strawberries sourced from U.S. family-owned farms, available through August. The menu includes our signature Farmer’s Choice Breakfast with a berry twist, Fresh Berry Hotcakes, and the return of our Summer Berry Salad, featuring grilled chicken, pecans and blue cheese topped with berries. We invite you to enjoy strawberries and all their ripeness in the best way!

Show us how you’re celebrating National Gardening Week by tagging @bobevans on Facebook or @bobevansfarms on Instagram or Twitter.