Strawberries

If you went back in history prior to the 18th century, you wouldn't find the strawberry as we know it today. The garden variety of strawberries were cultivated in Brittany, France, in the 1700's. Wild strawberries could be found earlier, but they were used mainly for medicinal purposes.

Strawberries are a hardy plant, and they will survive in many conditions. However, when they are bearing, they do require extra moisture. They will also propagate themselves with runners.

Strawberries are an excellent source of vitamin C and a good source of manganese. There haven't been extensive studies of their health benefits, but eating them seems to decrease the risk of cardiovascular disease, lower hypertension, lower LDL cholesterol levels, fight inflammation, and have cancer fighting properties.

May and June is strawberry season across much of the United States. You can enjoy their natural sweetness knowing that they are also a healthy snack.
            

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