The UK strawberry harvest in now in full swing and New Forest Fruit, one of the earlier growers in the UK are back on track after a late start due to less than optimal growing conditions.
The glasshouse production was right on schedule with an average crop, the French tunnels started later than normal due to the cold weather, but according to Managing Director Sandy Booth the fruit has a much better size which has resulted in an above average result.
“The late start in the tunnels meant the bigger volumes were delayed but we still managed to get our over-supply sold without hassle as nobody else had an oversupply at the same time. The average weight per strawberry was 5-10g more than normal because of the cooler weather which also gave us good brix levels.
“We are now back on track, although the current weather is not great. Demand is not as good as it should be due to the poor weather for the past 6 weeks. The poor weather also affected the quality of the fruit as in more botrytis around in July than there should be."
For more information:
Jackie Barr
New Forest Fruit
Tel: +44 (0)1590 612297
jackie@newforestfruit.com
www.newforestfruit.com