Tag: Strawberry genetics

Botanically speaking, the familiar garden strawberry is not a true berry, but an aggregate accessory fruit. This is just the first hint of a surprising answer to the question: are strawberries complex? The true depth of their complexity lies hidden within their genetic makeup, unique botanical structure, and the rich palette of chemicals that define their flavor.

According to agricultural research, while strawberry size has increased over the decades due to selective breeding, the fruit's sugar content and overall flavor intensity have somewhat decreased. Many consumers have noticed this shift, questioning whether the impressive size of some berries comes at the expense of their taste. The answer lies in a combination of genetics, growing conditions, and the basic biology of the fruit itself.