Strawberry Farming in the UK; Ultimate Guide 2024

The onset of summer in Britain can be distinguished from the bright, red, and juicy strawberry, rip in all its glory! Strawberry farming in UK is one of the most popular fruits to be grown. From small-scale grow bags to farms stretching acres, strawberry is grown abundantly in Britain.

This guide takes you through the world of strawberry farming in the UK, exploring everything from choosing the right varieties to navigating the challenges and reaping the rewards of this delightful endeavor.

The Strawberry Scene in the UK 

One of the biggest producers of strawberries in the world, Britain boasts a large strawberry industry, which utilizes various methods ranging from traditional field-grown crops to sophisticated glasshouse cultivation. This diversity caters to a nation with a voracious appetite for strawberries – consumption has skyrocketed from 67,000 tonnes in 1996 to a staggering 168,000 tonnes by 2015!

Plan Before You Act! 

Before you plant your strawberries, one must decide on strawberry farming in UK approach. One of the most important things you must consider when planting strawberries is the type of seeds you can use in your garden or farm. 

Early-season options like ‘Elsanta’ and ‘Honeoye’ offer a head start, while ever-bearing varieties like ‘Mara des Bois’ and ‘Royal Sovereign’ provide a continuous harvest throughout the summer. Consider factors like your climate, desired harvest period, and desired fruit size and flavor when selecting your strawberries.

Things to Take Care of

Growing strawberries might be easy when compared to other plants, but that does not mean it’ll thrive with no care. Once your strawberry plants are established, proper care is critical for a bountiful harvest. Here are some key practices to follow: 

• Watering: Strawberries require constant watering for good growth, especially during the dry spell. While watering, make sure that it is a consistent amount and does not waterlog the plant. The best system that can be used for strawberry farming is drip irrigation.
• Feeding: Strawberries benefit from a balanced fertiliser application during the growing season. Opt for a slow-release fertiliser formulated for fruiting crops.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around your plants to suppress weeds, retain moisture, and regulate soil temperature. Straw or composted bark are excellent options.
• Pest and Disease Control: Follow good hygiene practices to ensure that your plants are safe and well. Check your plants regularly for signs of pests and disease. If found, remove infected plant material promptly, and consider organic control measures whenever possible. The RHS website offers valuable guidance on managing common strawberry pests and diseases.

Sustainability and the Future of Strawberry Farming UK

Farming used to be a sustainable process of obtaining food. But now, with the population growing beyond control and over farming, agriculture practices are forced to become more sustainable. Despite these challenges, the future of strawberry farming in the UK looks promising. Consumer demand for locally grown, sustainably produced strawberries continues to rise. Additionally, advancements in technology and research are driving innovation in the industry.

Sustainable Practices: There’s a growing emphasis on sustainable farming practices, including organic cultivation, reduced chemical inputs, and water conservation. Adopting venture these approaches can improve environmental impact and appeal to eco-conscious consumers. Another method is to use coir alternatives on the farm. Using products like coco coir grow bags can make farming more sustainable. For the best coir products in UK, check out www.coirmedia.com 

Conclusion

Strawberry farming UK is a fruitful that offers both personal satisfaction and commercial potential. By carefully considering factors such as variety selection, growing techniques, and pest management, growers can increase their chances of success. By considering sustainable alternatives, leveraging new age techniques and technology, and exploring market opportunities can help secure a prosperous future for the UK strawberry industry!