Mock strawberries, also known as “false” strawberries, are small berries that can often be found growing in backyard gardens or wild areas. These berries closely resemble wild strawberries, with their narrow, acorn-shaped bodies and vibrant red color. While they may look similar to true strawberries, there are a few key differences to keep in mind.
One of the main distinctions between mock strawberries and true strawberries is their taste. Mock strawberries have a less pronounced flavor compared to true strawberries. They are often described as bland or lacking the sweetness and juiciness that true strawberries are known for. This can be disappointing for those expecting the burst of flavor that comes with biting into a ripe strawberry.
Another difference is their size. Mock strawberries tend to be smaller than true strawberries, with an average size of about 1-2 centimeters in diameter. This can make them a bit more tedious to harvest, as you’ll need to pick a larger quantity to yield a satisfying snack or ingredient for a recipe.
Mock strawberries also have a different growth habit compared to true strawberries. While true strawberries typically grow from a crown and send out runners to produce new plants, mock strawberries grow from a central stem and don’t produce runners. This can make them a bit easier to control in a garden setting, as they are less likely to spread and take over other areas.
In terms of edibility, mock strawberries are not toxic or harmful to consume. However, due to their lack of flavor and smaller size, they are not typically sought after as a culinary fruit. Some people may choose to use mock strawberries in jams or jellies, where their flavor can be enhanced with added sugar or other ingredients.
If you find mock strawberries growing in your yard, you have a few options for how to handle them. If you enjoy their appearance and don’t mind their taste, you can simply leave them be and enjoy their presence as a decorative plant. However, if you prefer to have true strawberries growing in your garden, it’s best to remove the mock strawberry plants to prevent any confusion or disappointment.
To remove mock strawberries, you can either dig them up by hand or use a garden tool like a trowel to carefully lift them out of the ground. It’s important to remove as much of the root system as possible to prevent regrowth. If you’re concerned about the spread of mock strawberries, you can also consider mulching the area or using a weed barrier to prevent their seeds from germinating.
Mock strawberries are small berries that closely resemble wild strawberries but lack the same flavor and size. While they are not toxic, they are not typically sought after for culinary use. If you find them growing in your yard and prefer true strawberries, it’s best to remove them to avoid any confusion or disappointment.
