Blackcurrant, the good weather gives hope to the UK for 2023

Currant

Fruits

United Kingdom

Published Jun 23, 2023

Tridge summary

British producers are feeling optimistic after a recent spell of sunshine brought renewed hopes for the blackcurrant crop hit by adverse weather and high costs. According to the Blackcurrant Foundation, blackcurrant growers across the UK are optimistic about the potential for this year's crop, despite many climate challenges and rising production costs. Average cold winters, a dry February, and a cold, wet spring made for a difficult growing season, according to the group. However, the recent period of sunshine, perfect for the second half of flowering, has brought renewed hope. Growers across the UK expect to produce around 11,000 tonnes of blackcurrants this season, maintaining an average yield of three tonnes per acre.

Original content

This goal marks a recovery from the impact of last year's extremely hot weather, which caused some crop failures. Jo Hilditch, spokesperson for the Blackcurrant Foundation, which represents UK growers, said: "Rising costs of agricultural inputs, including labor and materials, have caused growers to be cautious about planting new plantations of blackcurrant this year. Instead, many growers have opted to extend the life of existing crops, seeking to obtain the highest quality yield possible.” The UK blackcurrant sector comprises 35 specialist growers who maintain around 4,500 acres of crops. Together with the Wildlife Trust, these growers are committed to sustainable agricultural practices, including conservation efforts such as a 6-point plan implemented in partnership with Ribena. Among other things, the plan calls for responsible management of hedgerows, field margins, soil, water and habitats for rural fauna. Around 90% of the UK's blackcurrant crop is used to produce Ribena, ...

Source: Italianberry