You are receiving this pop-up because this is the first time you are visiting our site. If you keep getting this message, please enable cookies in your browser.
You are using software which is blocking our advertisements (adblocker).
As we provide the news for free, we are relying on revenues from our banners. So please disable your adblocker and reload the page to continue using this site. Thanks!
You are receiving this pop-up because this is the first time you are visiting our site. If you keep getting this message, please enable cookies in your browser.
Responsible water usage advised
UK heatwave: Lettuce growers warn shortages imminent
The unusually high temperatures in the UK have boosted demand for leafy salads at the same time as the heat has stopped the UK crop growing. Growers warn there could be a shortage of lettuce in UK supermarkets as soon as the middle of next week. They say they may have to import leaves from the US to make up the shortfall at a time when more than 90% of salad leaves is usually UK grown.
Broccoli and cauliflower crops have also been affected by the weather. Trade body the British Leafy Salad Growers Association (BLSGA) said the temperatures were causing havoc for growers. It said the last week a record 18 million lettuces had been sold, about 40% more than last year.
And one lettuce grower in East Anglia, who did not want to be named, told the BBC this summer had been very challenging. “Normally in good weather the crop grows rapidly, he said. But at the current temperatures the crop effectively stops growing because its under stress.”
Also, farmers and growers are being reminded to review their water usage. Water is vital for all agricultural and horticultural sectors, with variance in the quantity and quality required, as well as different patterns in seasonal requirements.
