"These weather conditions led to a very shallow rooting for the onion crops," explained William Findlay, a member of the Bedfordshire Growers Group. "Because of the sheer amount of rain in the beginning the roots were shallow and then in the dry second half, irrigation was very challenging as there were just no roots at depth."Onion plants would normally have roots of around 50+ cm, this year the average was 15-20cm. It was also varied due to soil type and some people really struggled, especially in Norfolk and Suffolk on Sandy loams, according to William.
"Size has been a challenge, but quality is very good due to the good harvesting weather in September," said William. "Storage will be mixed I think, but it is too early to say. The biggest worry will be fusarium as there is a fair bit of it about due to the wet early growing conditions, it is probably the biggest internal issue this year for the sector."
"As for the market, there is always retail pressure with the discounters and the big four. Contracts are agreed before the season started so there will be price pressure. There will be no shortage, but no glut either as total tonnage is the lowest since 2013 (13% down on last season). British Onions estimate total tonnage at 433,000."
Sweet Red Onion
A partnership between Bedfordshire Growers Ltd. and Alastair Findlay Partnership has been growing the sweet red onion in increasing volumes for a couple of years now. It was developed by William's father Alastair over 20 years of selective breeding. He developed this sweet red onion with reduced pungency and natural sweetness which develops during storage. It can be prepared without tears which is a ‘first’ for onions.
Last year 4 hectares were planted, which increased to 10 hectares this year. William explains that is a slow increase but also a learning process. It is an original hybrid and we need to understand how best to handle it.
"We are currently supplying sweet red onion to ASDA and will be in M&S next week, there are others who are actively interested. We are working with a Dutch company on exports. There are also good possibilities in North America, "where sweet onions are 20% of all onions retailed".
Consumer education is a bit of an issue in the UK where people are not familiar with sweet onions, but not so in North America where it is well known. Media attention is helping to get the message across to the British consumers.
For more information:
William Findlay
+44 1234 838275
Email: william@thelakesfarm.com