The apple harvest at Adrian Scripps in Kent started around 6-7 weeks ago and most varieties are nearing completion. They are still harvesting Breaburn and Pink Lady will start soon.
“We are running a little behind on last year, around a week to 10 days on most varieties,” said James Simpson, Managing Director. “We had a late blossom, and yields are down as a result of the high temperatures in the summer with many days of +35 degrees which causes the trees to shut down. It is quite variable through the orchards; some parts have fared better than others. Sizing is also variable.”
Overall, the UK apple volumes will be down compared to last year.
But James said that despite the smaller crop costs remain the same as they are based per hectare.
“Despite the good demand for English apples, low volumes are unsustainable for many growers and a lot of farmers are growing apples and not seeing any profit. It is challenging as retailers have to put an affordable product on the shelves but inflation has been far greater for growers and has not been reflected in returns.”
Labour availability has been better this season though, there is more available than 18 months ago, but it does get challenging to keep the labour as the weather gets colder.
For more information:
James Simpson
Adrian Scripps Ltd
Tel: +44 1892 832406
[email protected]
www.adrianscripps.co.uk