Explore the most popular UF/IFAS strawberry varieties grown in Egypt

Egyptian strawberry varieties have come a long way since their first introduction in the late 1990s. With the introduction of UF/IFAS strawberry varieties, the industry in Egypt has experienced a transformational change.
The UF/IFAS varieties have significantly increased the production per acre and have provided growers with a range of options to suit their specific needs.
Egypt is known for its delicious strawberries, which are grown in various regions throughout the country.
There are several different varieties of Egyptian strawberries, each with its own unique flavor, texture, and appearance.

Sweet Charlie

"Sweet Charlie" was the first UF/IFAS strawberry variety introduced to the Egyptian industry. Its early yields and sweet flavor were transformational for the industry, increasing the production per acre from 5-8 metric tons to 10-15 metric tons.
"Sweet Charlie" was first introduced as dormant plants that were planted from early September until mid-October and produced fruits from mid-February until May.
It is now available as fresh plants that can be planted from early September until mid-October and produce fruits from mid-December until May.
"Sweet Charlie" is known for its large size, sweet flavor, and firm texture, making it a popular choice for both fresh and processed markets.

Strawberry Festival

"Strawberry Festival" was introduced in 2004 and was the first foreign plant variety to be protected by the Egyptian Plant Variety Protection Office (PVPO).
It is protected by Egypt Plant Breeder's Rights Certificate No. 1. "Festival" was an important fresh-market variety in Egypt for several years.
However, from 2009-2017, the export of "Festival" to the fresh market in Europe steadily decreased.
Still, due to its unique and outstanding processing characteristics, it grew to occupy nearly 100% of the acreage dedicated solely to IQF.
"Strawberry Festival" is known for its deep-red internal color, firmness, and sugar levels, making it ideal for processing into jams, jellies, and other preserves.
In recent years, around 70% of the total IQF market has been represented by "Strawberry Festival," making it the most popular variety for processing in Egypt.

Florida Fortuna

"Florida Fortuna" is a UF/IFAS strawberry variety that was introduced to the Egyptian industry in the early 2000s. It is a high-yielding variety that is known for its large-sized fruit and sweet flavor.
"Florida Fortuna" is typically planted in late September and produces fruits from early December until May. It has a firm texture, making it ideal for shipping to distant markets. "Florida Fortuna" is a popular choice for both fresh and processed markets.

Sweet Sensation®

"Sweet Sensation®" is a UF/IFAS strawberry variety that was introduced to the Egyptian industry in the early 2010s.
It is a high-yielding variety that is known for its large-sized fruit, sweet flavor, and juicy texture. "Sweet Sensation®" is typically planted in late September and produces fruits from early December until May.
It is a popular choice for both fresh and processed markets, as it is known for its excellent flavor and juicy texture.

unique flavor of strawberries

Egyptian strawberries are a delicious and highly prized fruit that come in a variety of different varieties. From the large and sweet Charlie to the juicy and flavorful Festival Lina, there is a strawberry variety for every taste preference and culinary application.
Whether you enjoy eating them fresh, making jams and jellies, or baking them into delicious desserts, Egyptian strawberries are a versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of ways.
So the next time you're in Egypt or have the opportunity to try some Egyptian strawberries, be sure to savor the unique flavor and texture of each variety.

Conclusion

Egyptian strawberry varieties have come a long way since their first introduction to the industry in the late 1990s. The UF/IFAS varieties have significantly increased the production per acre, providing growers with a range of options to suit their specific needs.
From the early-yielding "Sweet Charlie" to the firm-textured "Florida Fortuna" and the juicy "Sweet Sensation®, there is a UF/IFAS variety for every taste preference and culinary application.
"Strawberry Festival" remains the most popular variety for processing in Egypt due to its unique and outstanding processing characteristics. With the continual introduction of new UF/IFAS varieties, it is clear that the industry in Egypt is poised for continued growth and success in the years to come.