The government is calling on UK farmers to consider how they will cope with the effects of climate change.
It said changing weather patterns could have severe implications for crops.
Scientists have been looking at possible consequences of global warming as far ahead as 2080, but said the effects could be seen far sooner.
There may also be benefits, such as the south of England ending up with the perfect climate for champagne grapes.
DEFRA is looking at ways farmers can reduce their vulnerability to any increased risk as well as take advantage of any benefits.
It believed that uncertainties over climate change are likely to be the greatest threats for farmers and growers.
Elliot Morley, environment minister, said: "We are well aware that one of the threats of climate change is change in relation to insects," Mr Morley told a briefing in London.
There could also be changes in the life cycles of parasites and the incidence of diseases.
According to BBC environment correspondent, Sarah Mukherjee, "many of our thirstiest crops", like potatoes and vegetables, could be forced to shift production away from areas like Anglia westwards, as the east of the UK gets drier.
Ministers said farmers might have to start digging their own reservoirs to help cope with the summer months.
At the same time, licences to take water out of the existing supplies in environmentally-sensitive areas will be reduced.
Farming sectors could also be affected by an increased frequency of storms, leading to flooding of the lower courses of major rivers.
But warmer weather could also bring benefits, it is reported, as crops will grow and ripen faster.
Morley said the geographical range for growing champagne grapes was spreading from the Champagne region of north-eastern France.
"There is a theory that, because of the change, the champagne grape is moving north and so the best climatic conditions for the champagne grape will move to the south of England and our wine sector is expanding and is likely to benefit," he said.
No comments yet