Record heat drives UK berry harvest to new highs despite climate strains

Despite a summer marked by record heatwaves, wildfires and water shortages, UK berry farms have produced a bumper harvest, up 6% on last year's large crop, according to British Berry Growers. Rapid growth was aided by warm weather and the widespread use of polytunnels and computer-controlled drip irrigation, which shielded the fruit from extreme conditions. The trade body warns that strawberry yields could dip in early autumn as plants tire, and blackcurrant production is expected to drop 10%.

In contrast, the nation's cereals sector is suffering, with wheat 13% below the five-year average and barley yields forecast at a quarter below that benchmark, per the Agriculture and Horticulture Development Board. While vineyards and oilseed rape have benefited, many salad and vegetable growers are struggling, and about 40% of berry farms still lack on-farm water reservoirs, leaving them dependent on limited mains or river supplies. Industry leaders call for eased licensing of river abstraction and further government support to secure water resources for future hot, dry summers.