Medallion is a 2020 release from the University of Florida and has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best-tasting modern Florida strawberry varieties. It's sweet, intensely fruity, and aromatic in a way that genuinely stands out from other subtropical short-day varieties. It does require a bit more attention than some other Florida varieties (not recommended for new gardeners), but growers who put in the work consistently find that the flavor makes it worth it. SHIPPING INFO: Strawberry plugs ship in Fall 2026. Hardiness Zones: 9-10 Key Features: Exceptional Flavor: Medallion might just be the best-tasting modern Florida variety. Medium-Large Fruit: Berries come in at 20–28g with good shelf life, making them well-suited for fresh market and direct sales. Compact, Low-Runner Plants: Less runner production means lower labor costs for runner management, and the compact plant habit makes for tidy, easy-to-manage beds. High Yields with Proper Management: Medallion is a higher-maintenance variety—but it rewards growers who give it the right conditions and attention. How are they sold? Medallion strawberry plugs are available in quantities of 12 and 48 plants. They will arrive as rooted plants in soil. Please unpack as soon as you receive them, water well, and keep in the shade for the first couple of days before planting. A few important notes for Medallion growers: Medallion is a rewarding variety but does have some specific requirements worth knowing going in: Plant early: Target an October 1–10 planting window for best results. Later planting compromises early season yield. Soil and nutrition: Medallion performs best in heavier, wetter soils and requires more nitrogen than most other Florida varieties. Adjust your fertility program accordingly. Charcoal rot susceptibility: Medallion is susceptible to charcoal rot (Macrophomina phaseolina). Avoid planting in fields with a known history of this pathogen. Organic production: Fair to good performance under organic management with active disease and fertility monitoring—not the most hands-off variety for organic systems, but doable with attention. Planting Instructions: Choose a well-draining location with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight. Prepare the soil by incorporating compost or organic matter to improve fertility. A soil test is especially important with Medallion given its higher nitrogen requirements. Plant at a depth where the crown sits just at or slightly above the soil surface — burying the crown leads to rot, and planting too shallow causes roots to dry out. Space plants 12–15 inches apart. Water well after planting and maintain consistent moisture throughout the growing period. Full planting instructions will be included with your order. Non-GMO Commitment: At The Farm on Central, all our plants are guaranteed non-GMO and not genetically modified in any way, upholding natural breeding methods and promoting sustainable gardening and farming practices. Photo Credit: https://gcrec.ifas.ufl.edu/ufifas-strawberry-varieties/
