A recent trip to Kristiansand, Norway to discuss the differences, in exploitation of tunnels, between that country and the UK made the author review some UK production statistics. In 2005 the slide below was used to help illustrate the dramatic impact of new systems on production in England and Scotland. A sharp increase in the value of output could be shown in relation to the widespread adoption of what we term ‘field scale’ tunnels. There were other factors at play, not least a receptive supply chain with several very strong supermarket companies working hard to improve the quality and increase the volume of fresh produce sales. However the importance of tunnels cannot be denied.
UK yield and value rising despite a declining area of production
A closer look at the data shows clearly that the increased value came from increased yield per hectare. The exciting thing about this is that right up to 2009 the average yield continued to increase. British producers deserve much praise for achieving this. A never ending stream of innovations or early adoption of new ideas from other countries has seen dramatic changes in plant quality, varietal development and planting systems (and covering structures!) that has sustained the momentum of increasing yields.
- Almost Continuous Yield Increases!
Most likely there are some mystical statistical things to understand about these figures – perhaps some of the output has been boosted by imported fruit being packed in British packhouses but even so the figures are very encouraging – for growers and for all the technical people working in the industry. WE CAN DO IT!
Traditional Type Planting - 'on the flat' and outdoors.
Where we are now. Excellent raised bed production under Haygrove tunnels with mechanised ventilation.
