This year, UK supermarkets, including Tesco, Marks & Spencer, and Sainsbury’s, are stocking unusually large strawberries. Experts say the berries are about 20% bigger than usual, with some weighing around 50 grams each, so large that you cannot fit them in your mouth. This has prompted warnings and surprise among growers and consumers alike.
The unusually large size of the strawberries is attributed to the perfect weather conditions this spring. The UK has experienced a record sunny April with warm days and cool nights. This combination helps strawberries grow bigger and sweeter. Warm daytime temperatures allow the plants to build sugars, while cool nights help the plants recover and channel energy into producing sweeter fruit.
Growers like Ms. Regan, who has over 50 years of experience, confirm that the size is good, but the sweetness is the most remarkable feature this season. The Summer Berry Company near Chichester reported a production increase of 200 tonnes, which is 50 tonnes more than last year, thanks to favourable weather.
However, there are concerns about the rest of the growing season. The strawberry season in the UK runs until November, and unpredictable weather could affect the crop.
Some farmers worry about drought conditions and have installed irrigation systems to protect their crops. They hope for some rain soon, as this spring is predicted to be the driest in over a century.
The giant size of these strawberries has caught the attention of consumers and experts. Paul Goodall, a grower from Somerset, said the warm start to May has sped up the ripening process. making the harvest come faster than usual.
The giant strawberries are described as “lush” and “sweet-tasting,” making them very appealing but challenging to eat due to their size.
This phenomenon is unusual enough that experts say they have “never seen anything like it” in nearly two decades of strawberry growing in the UK. The large berries are expected to be a highlight of the strawberry season, but shoppers are advised to be aware of their size when buying.
Although UK supermarkets like Tesco are offering giant strawberries this season due to ideal weather conditions. These strawberries are larger and sweeter than usual, but their size may surprise consumers. Growers remain cautiously optimistic but are prepared for the challenges of a long growing season amid dry weather concerns. This season promises to be memorable for strawberry lovers across the UK.
