Brussels sprouts struggle as heavy rains cause crop failure
- Brussels sprouts have increased in average size from 24mm to 30mm this year due to improved weather conditions.
- Tesco collaborated with suppliers to introduce hardier sprout varieties to better withstand the UK's climate.
- The quality of this year's festive sprouts is expected to delight consumers, marking a significant improvement over last year's crop.
In the UK, the growing conditions for Brussels sprouts improved significantly this year compared to the previous year. Heavy rainfall in late November and December 2023 led to a below-average yield of sprouts, measuring only 24mm in diameter. However, this year, under better conditions, the average size increased to 30mm, up to 25% larger than the previous year. Tesco, one of the largest supermarket chains in the UK, collaborated closely with its suppliers, including TH Clements, to ensure the quality and size of this year's crop. The growing process in 2024 benefited from favorable weather characterized by warmth and sunshine during the summer months followed by adequate rainfall in the autumn season. Cold weather in December also contributed positively to the sprouts' growth. The new varieties introduced by Tesco were selected based on their ability to thrive in the local climate, particularly focusing on hardier types. John Moulding, the commercial director of TH Clements, acknowledged that the growing conditions had virtually reversed from last year, contributing to greater sprout size and quality. TH Clements planned to operate up to 16 harvesters around the clock in the weeks leading up to Christmas to supply Britain with 192 million sprouts. According to Simon Tenwick, a Tesco buying manager, ongoing efforts over the last year have enhanced the overall crop quality, making this year's festive produce among the best in recent years. Tesco's partnership with farmers aims to improve taste and texture through innovative farming practices and the introduction of new land with optimal growing conditions, such as alluvial silts found on the east coast of Lincolnshire. As a result of these advancements and better climatic conditions this year, sprout fans can look forward to an abundant supply of larger, tastier Brussels sprouts during the holiday season. The combination of better varieties and improved weather conditions has positioned this year’s crop favorably against challenges faced in the previous season.