Strawberries Cambridge Favourite

Origin and history

Strawberries Cambridge Favourite is a strawberry cultivar that originated in the United Kingdom. It was developed at the Cambridge University Botanic Garden in the mid-20th century. The exact year of its introduction is not widely documented, but it became commercially available and popular during the 1950s. It was bred as part of ongoing horticultural research to develop reliable garden varieties. This cultivar was selected for its consistent performance and flavour in British climatic conditions. Its creation is a notable example of mid-20th century British fruit breeding efforts.

What it is for

Cambridge Favourite is a mid-season strawberry variety primarily grown for its culinary fruit. It is intended for cultivation in home gardens and allotments for fresh consumption. The variety is also suitable for freezing and for use in cooked dishes like jams and desserts. Its primary purpose is to provide a reliable, heavy crop of berries in typical garden settings. It serves gardeners looking for a consistent performer rather than the very earliest or latest fruit. The plant is also used for educational purposes in horticultural settings due to its predictable growth habits.

Pros and cons

A significant pro of Cambridge Favourite is its reliability and consistent, heavy cropping in a wide range of UK garden soils and climates. It produces a good yield of medium-sized, bright red fruits with a balanced, sweet flavour that is excellent for jam making. The plants are relatively hardy and show good resistance to viral diseases that affect other varieties. A notable con is its susceptibility to grey mould (Botrytis cinerea), especially in wet summers or if plants are too crowded, which can devastate the crop. The flavour, while good, is often considered less intense and complex than that of some modern or alpine varieties, leading some enthusiasts to find it bland. A common mistake is planting it in poorly drained soil, which it tolerates less well than some other cultivars, leading to root rot and poor establishment.

Who it suits

Cambridge Favourite suits the home gardener seeking a dependable, mid-season strawberry for general family use. It is ideal for beginners due to its forgiving nature and straightforward cultivation requirements. This variety is well-suited to gardeners with average soil who want a proven performer for making preserves, as it yields a large volume of fruit at once. It is less suited to connoisseurs or gourmet gardeners specifically seeking the very best flavour for fresh eating alone. It also suits those with limited space who need a single variety that reliably produces a useful crop without specialised care. It is a practical choice for school or community gardens where reliability and educational value are priorities.