A recent winter storm in Southeast Texas brought unexpected benefits to a local farm in Alvin. While the freezing temperatures posed a threat to crops, the strawberries at Froberg’s Farm not only survived but turned out to be sweeter than ever. According to farmer Tyler Froberg, the cold weather caused a unique scientific reaction, enhancing the sugar content of the strawberries.
Surviving the Cold: A Sweet Surprise
Just over two weeks ago, a winter storm covered Alvin in snow, raising concerns for local farmers. However, Froberg’s Farm had its ripening strawberries protected under snow-covered blankets. While some berries appeared slightly malformed, their flavor turned out to be incredibly rich and sweet.
“This is a frosted strawberry, a cold weather berry,” said Tyler Froberg. “They may not be the prettiest, but they’re the tastiest.”
Why Are the Strawberries Sweeter?
The intense cold forced the strawberry plants to consolidate their carbohydrates, a process that naturally increases sugar levels. Froberg tested the sugar content of the berries using a barometer, which measures dissolved solids in liquids (in this case, sugar).
- Typical grocery store strawberries contain about 8% sugar.
- Froberg’s strawberries measured between 12% and 16%!
“If you can protect them, you will get the sweetest fruit you’ve ever had,” Froberg explained.
A Rush for the Sweetest Berries
As word spread about the exceptionally sweet strawberries, pickers flocked to Froberg’s Farm, eager to fill their baskets. Visitors were amazed by the extra sweetness, and most left with bucketloads of berries.
“We’re still seeing that overly sweet berry,” Froberg said.
With demand soaring, finding a ripe strawberry still standing at the end of the day is becoming a challenge!
Despite the harsh winter storm, Froberg’s Farm turned an unexpected weather challenge into a delicious advantage. Thanks to nature’s science, these “frosted strawberries” have become a rare and delightful treat for Texans. If you’re in the area, now is the perfect time to experience some of the sweetest strawberries in Texas—straight from the farm!
