Addressing Quality Challenges and Anticipating the New Crop
As the onion sector navigates through delayed planting and varying weather conditions, stakeholders brace themselves for the upcoming season. Stephen Hedderly from Bedfordshire Growers sheds light on the current scenario, highlighting both successes and hurdles encountered in the process.
Bedfordshire Growers Reflects on Planting Challenges
Planting endeavors this year were met with delays across the UK, presenting a common challenge for the onion sector. Wet soils and timing dilemmas posed significant considerations for farmers. Stephen Hedderly remarks on the dilemma faced by farmers, weighing the options between planting in saturated soils or waiting for better conditions. Despite these challenges, the overall planting progress has been satisfactory, albeit with some pockets left unplanted due to excessive wetness.
Weather Dependency and Crop Assessment
With the season’s progress contingent upon weather patterns, recent conditions have presented a mixed bag of experiences. While April and May offered favorable conditions, recent cool and overcast weather has brought its share of challenges. As the season progresses towards the longest day, assessing crop growth becomes paramount. The variability in crop growth, ranging from 2.5 to 5 true leaves, necessitates vigilant monitoring in the days ahead.
Quality Challenges on the Horizon
Downy mildew and the emergence of a new pest, the Bean seed fly, have emerged as focal points for quality management. The unforeseen presence of Bean seed fly in certain areas has posed unexpected challenges, requiring proactive measures for mitigation. Additionally, wire worm infestations continue to persist, further complicating quality assurance efforts.
Transitioning to the New Crop Season
As the 2023/24 season draws to a close, attention shifts towards preparations for the new crop. With the final grading of Red and Browns underway, focus gradually shifts towards imports to meet market demands. Egyptian and Southern Hemisphere crops are set to dominate the UK market, with expectations of the new crop’s availability by the end of July. The transition to the new season hinges on favorable weather conditions in the coming weeks, signaling a period of anticipation for stakeholders across the onion industry.
