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UK berry harvest rises 6% as record heatwaves boost volumes
Blackcurrant production is expected to fall 10%, while fears persist that late-season strawberry output could slow after plants were exhausted by heavy heatwave cropping.
UK berry growers say this year’s UK blackberry, blueberry and raspberry harvest is tracking higher despite a sweltering summer marked by heatwaves, drought and wildfires. According to British Berry Growers, with two-thirds of the harvest picked, volumes are up 6% versus last year’s already larger crop.
The trade group attributes the strength mainly to climate-resilient farming methods, including polytunnel production and drip irrigation, which can shield crops from extreme heat. Blackberries, blueberries and raspberries have performed particularly well as the hot conditions helped berries grow rapidly.
British Berry Growers also flagged uneven effects later in the season. It expects blackcurrant production to be down 10%, and it fears late-season strawberry production could be slower than hoped in early autumn because plants may become exhausted after heavy cropping during the heatwave.
In comments carried by The Guardian Business, BBG chair Nick Marston said growers have collectively invested millions of pounds over years to improve resilience, including secure water supplies and computer-controlled drip irrigation. The outlet also notes that the UK’s broader cereal harvest has been hit, with wheat 13% below the five-year average, according to the government-backed Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board.
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