Production of Jersey Royal potatoes has slowed, following a fantastically early start to the season four weeks ago.
“We have had some very early volumes grown under glass, but probably only about 12 tonnes a week,” said Dan Bennett, commercial manager at the Jersey Royal Company.
“And those volumes have been slowing over the last three weeks because it has been cold and dull. We desperately need some more sunshine and heat to get the crop moving again.”
Very early tubers have been supplied to Marks & Spencer, with some volumes of the glasshouse crop also going to specialist wholesalers in the UK.
The situation had looked as if it would be re-run of last year’s early season, which saw summer temperatures on the Channel island from March to May bring the crop to an early peak.
Up until three weeks ago, the mild winter had meant warm soil temperatures and the prospect of an early debut for the outdoor crop too. “We are still aiming for May 10-12 for the big volume push and promotional activity,” said Bennett. “But volumes are likely to be a little lighter until then. We don’t want to get through the crop too quickly, as we could have a supply gap in late April. The crop needs to bulk up properly. Three to four days of good heat and sunshine could make all the difference,” he added.
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