Bad show for leeks
Bad show for leeks
LEEK growers are suffering poor crop growth, with supplies set to tighten further as imports become increasingly scarce. Leek yields and quality have suffered after the extreme wet in November and the coldest temperatures seen in late December for four years, says the Leek Growers Association.
Wet weather in November led to high levels of white tip and rust and in some areas total losses due to flooding. The coldest night temperatures of -8C to -14C have caused much frost damage. Already yields are down 18-35% and could fall further before spring regrowth commences. Harvesting costs are up 15% due to extra skinning to achieve leeks free from disease and frost damage.
The previously predicted post-Christmas shortfall in supplies could materialise in mid to late February before spring regrowth commences, it adds. The shortfall in supply cannot be met by imports due to their similar supply situation and the high cost of imports. *