“Mother Nature has kind of changed on us this year.”

That’s for sure. Those words were spoken yesterday by J.D. Scott, owner of Scott Strawberry Farm in Moneta. He told me these unseasonably warm early spring days have caused his strawberry crop to come in early. Usually, the season peaks around Mother’s Day. But Scott said he’s already got a really nice crop and they have “wonderful flavor.”

The problem is nobody seems to know these beautiful red gems are waiting on the vine for someone to pick ‘em and eat ‘em. And when the days get hot, the strawberries go bad quickly. It makes me want to cry thinking about those lovely berries going to waste!

So I’m telling you now: If you are interested in getting some locally grown strawberries this year, check out Scott Strawberry Farm at 5234 Joppa Mill Rd., Moneta. The telephone number is 540-297-7917 and hours are Monday through Saturday, 7:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. and Sunday, 1 to 6 p.m. It’s always a good idea to call ahead, especially if you’re driving a long distance. Scott charges $9 per 5-quart flat if you pick them yourself. That breaks down to about $1.60 per quart you-pick. You can also purchase pre-picked strawberries for $13 per 5-quart flat.

Dansby’s in Rocky Mount, which usually has a nice crop, is taking the year off. Mr. Dansby does have bedding plants for sale — mostly vegetables and herbs — so if you are interested in that, call him at 297-7917. He’s at 4481 Colonial Turnpike, Rocky Mount.

Dean Puryear Farms in South Boston is only selling a limited number of berries brought in from Carver Farms in Roxboro, NC. But if you want to check that out, their info is 3191 Huell Matthews Highway, South Boston. Phone: (434) 575-7307 or 517-0237 (night).

Otherwise, I would advise you to keep your eyes peeled anywhere you shop for local produce, whether that be the farmers market or a co-op. While not all of the strawberries might be as early as Scott’s, they won’t be far behind. And if you want to find them at the farmers market, show up early. Local strawberries are not likely to hang around for long!

If anybody knows of a source I’ve missed, please share the info with us. I don’t think this will affect the Strawberry Festival this year. That’s planned for Friday, May 4 and Saturday, May 5 in Elmwood Park. More info here.