Record-high U.S. strawberry production in 1993 and another large crop anticipated in 1994 continue the growth trend that began in the 1970's. California produced nearly 80 percent of the U.S. crop on less than half of the strawberry acreage due to higher output per acre than other States. Grower and retail prices for fresh strawberries usually follow strong seasonal patterns and are below average in April, May, and June. Retail prices for fresh strawberries have kept pace with inflation since 1980, while grower prices have not. Americans are eating more strawberries grown in the United States, and per capita consumption has grown from 3 to 5 pounds since 1970.