Erica Rodriguez of Rodriguez Farms

Location: Oxnard, off Pleasant Valley and Dodge Road

What they grow: A variety of juicy strawberries, including Albion, San Andreas, and Portola strawberries.

Where to buy: Farmers markets including Tuesday in downtown Santa Barbara, Thursday in Carpinteria, Friday in Montecito, Saturday in downtown Santa Barbara, and Sunday in Goleta.

In season now: The sweet Albion strawberry, a perfect dessert berry and juicy treat. Strawberries typically have two seasons, January to July and July to December, with the sweeter strawberries picked in late winter/early spring.

Their story: For more than 30 years, the Rodriguez family has been growing strawberries in Oxnard. Their small 15-acre farm is family-owned and operated, and a familiar face at the farmers market.

“We really love working the farmers markets, especially working with other vendors,” said Erica Rodriguez. “It feels great helping customers and building those relationships over time.”

Their sweet strawberries have quickly become a market favorite, selling for over 15 years. Located in a temperate growing zone, the Rodriguez family enjoys providing fresh produce year-round.

“We like to focus on consistency and quality in our product,” said Rodriguez. “Oxnard offers the perfect climate for growing strawberries — just the right amount of rain and an ideal temperature.”

With her dad and uncle doing the majority of the farming, Rodriguez loves working the markets. Eager to make good food accessible to all, the farm loves their sweet, specialty crop.

“Everybody loves strawberries, it’s a fruit everyone can enjoy,” said Rodriguez. “Our favorite recipe is chocolate-covered strawberries or sour cream with brown sugar and strawberries — try it!”