Greenhouse strawberries are thriving in the Benelux. At least that is what the development of the acreage for the continuous cultivation of greenhouse strawberries shows, according to Johan van Alphen from Special Fruit. "The Benelux acreage is currently more than 300 hectares and grew 50-60 hectares from 2013 to 2014. Now growth is a maximum 5% per year, especially a result from farmers who already grow strawberries and are expanding production."
According to Johan the growth of the acreage is keeping pace with the growing demand for strawberries during the winter. "Last fall the strawberry price increased compared to the previous year, even while there was a larger supply. The Dutch had no competition from other countries.''
Even under normal circumstances Johan is not afraid of competition from imported strawberries. "However, growers in Southern Europe is developing very strongly with improved varieties and quality."
According to Johan, open field strawberries still taste slightly fuller. Johan: "But everything develops. Of course there is a difference between strawberries from substrate and open field strawberries but with today's technology I expect that the difference will be equalized over time. This also applies to strawberries from gutter cultivation that come on the market around April/May." According to Johan the difference in taste apparently weighs up to the benefits of covered crop: "Customers want to assure quality and volumes. This is guaranteed by strawberries protected from the weather. Volumes are much higher and growers are better paid."
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