The sunniest spring on record in a part of Northern Ireland influenced the Comber earlies season, marking the first harvested new potatoes in the region, which hold Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status. A grower noted it was "a really good growing season," attributed to a dry early May followed by timely rain, promoting early maturation of the Comber earlies.
Richard Orr, a fourth-generation potato farmer, conducted harvesting activities on his land between Strangford Lough and Scrabo Tower. This location benefits from a unique microclimate, contributing to the production of these early potatoes. "We are below Scrabo Tower here, so the soil is free-draining," Orr highlighted, enabling efficient planting post-winter. The proximity to the lough added frost protection, essential for ideal growing conditions.
As the chairman of the Comber Earlies Growers Co-Operative Society, Orr plays a role in organizing the annual festival celebrating this unique crop. The Comber earlies, grown exclusively in County Down, has held PGI status since 2012. This year, the favorable weather led to planting on February 12 and early harvesting due to sunny late March and April, followed by rain, resulting in a promising yield.
"They've matured and they've been in the ground that wee bit longer, and all that sun helps them to really grow out and mature, and leads to the flavour," Orr remarked. Varied conditions throughout the planting and growing phases impact the ultimate yield quality, with Orr noting, "This year looks like a reasonably good yield so far, with the potential to go on to be very good if we get the right conditions."
Comber Earlies, recognized for their PGI status since 2012, are among distinct European products like Parma ham and Champagne wine. Only produce within the designated geographic area can be marketed under this name, strictly harvested in May, June, and July.
The Comber Earlies Food Festival, organized by Ards and North Down Borough Council, features cooking demonstrations by chefs, children's activities like tractor rides and sensory activities, and live music.
Source: BBC
