The British strawberry season has been delayed this year due to the cooler spring temperatures.
The cooler spring has slowed the ripening process but with strawberries remaining on plant for longer, the taste profile is richer with more balanced natural sweetness, according to growers.
British Berry Growers said the result was a crop of “large, juicy and flavourful berries” which growers said would be “worth the wait”.
“The start of the British strawberry season is always a highly anticipated moment, and while the cooler spring has meant consumers have had to wait a little longer this year, the quality of this fruit is outstanding,” said Nick Marston, chairman of British Berry Growers.
“Our growers are harvesting berries of significant size, boasting superior quality and good sugar levels. As the phrase goes, ‘good things come to those who wait’.”
The cooler conditions followed a spring characterised by dry weather, sunny intervals and chilly overnight temperatures, according to recent analysis from the Met Office.
At the same time, many southern counties also recorded their sunniest April on record, which also serves to boost yields.
The grower group said many growers were embracing new technology and ecological methods to ensure the best possible harvest and lengthen the British season regardless of the weather.
No comments yet