SOFT fruit farms in Scotland are enjoying an impressive season, with strawberry yields nearly doubling compared to 2024.
A warm, sunny spring is credited with giving crops an early boost, leading to larger, juicier berries making their way to supermarket shelves across the UK.
Mains of Errol farm in the Carse of Gowrie, located near Perth, is home to over 800,000 strawberry plants.
Its farmers expect to harvest around 1000 tonnes by the end of the picking season, which could potentially run into November.
Yields so far are up by 40 to 50% compared to 2024's picking season, with strong crops across all strawberry varieties and tunnel types.
During peak season, the farm picks, packs, and distributes up to 90 tonnes of fruit each week.
While the volume is welcome, the increase brings challenges in quality control and managing shelf life.
“It could be five days before a consumer goes in and picks up that punnet and that needs to have some sort of life in a fridge,” farmer Jamie Arnot told STV News.
“So we need size to be right, shape’s important, shelf life’s key, and then how sweet they are is obviously – well, that goes without saying.”
Unexpected surpluses can also create issues across the supply chain, particularly in strong growing years like this one, as excess waste can create pressure for both suppliers and farmers.
Arnot said that an extra 100 tonnes a week going into August makes it vital to find homes for the fruit as quickly as possible to avoid waste.
The industry continues to face challenges from an unpredictable climate, but this year’s harvest has shown what’s possible under optimal growing conditions.
