Seasonal fruits and vegetables UK
For most Brits UK weather is regarded as miserable for most of the year and a subject we could whinge about endlessly. Despite the public’s disdain for the UK’s often abysmal weather, the temperate climate does in fact allow a large variety of fruit and veg to be grown and harvested all year round. Areas that have somewhat of a mild microclimate such as Kent, Herefordshire, and the Isle of Wight support the growth of delicious apples, cherries, and plums. In contrast to the cooler north, the south of England’s combination of higher temperatures and rain-rich regions offers an almost ideal environment for the cultivation of fruit. However, it is worth noting that arable farmers are constantly having to adapt their techniques and infrastructure to cope with the ever-changing effects of climate change.
Despite the use of innovative technology and farming methods, the UK remains heavily reliant on overseas imports of fruit and vegetables. As an island, the UK has a relatively small domestic growing capacity and an increasing consumer-led demand for a wide variety of produce all year round.
Throughout 2024, the most produce imported to the UK came from the following countries:
- Spain: Spain remains the largest supplier of fresh produce to the UK, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, peppers, and citrus fruits are some of the most sought-after Spanish goods. Spanish produce plays a critical role in filling the gaps in supermarket shelves when British domestic production is low, especially during winter.
- Netherlands: The Netherlands plays an important role in the UKs supply of tomatoes, lettuce, peppers, and berries. Dutch greenhouse technology famously sets the worldwide standard for commercial horticulture.
- Morocco: Morocco has become an increasingly important supplier of fresh vegetables particularly in recent years with the UK relying on imports of Morrocan tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers, as well as some citrus fruits.
- South Africa: It is no surprise that South Africa supplies the UK with a variety of citrus fruits including oranges, lemons, and limes as well as delicious grapes throughout the year.
- Poland: Despite Britain boasting an array of seasonal apple varieties we still heavily rely on Poland producing and selling us a vast amount of apples.
- Chile: Chile is a notable supplier of blueberries and raspberries for the UK. Based in the Southern hemisphere, Chile’s berry harvest season takes place at the opposite time of year to the UK’s growing cycle. With this in mind, whilst the UK experiences its coldest months and a reduced supply of fresh berries, Chile’s harvest is at its peak.
What fruit is in season UK?
Throughout winter there are several fruits in the UK that either become or remain in season. For example, several apple varieties are widely available during January such as Braeburn, Gala and Jonagold. Typically later season/winter-ready varieties are renowned for their crisp texture and sharp flavour. For many Brits, wintertime is synonymous with indulgent apple based desserts including hearty apple crumbles and pies with custard.
Another crumble filling favourite in the form of fresh plums is available throughout January despite most varieties being harvested at the end of the Summer. Victoria plums for example are available in early winter months as they are stored in cool, preserving conditions.
Wonderful as a jelly to serve with sharp hard cheeses, quinces are readily available in supermarkets throughout winter in the UK. Quinces are a hard, yellowish fruit that is rarely eaten freshly picked, instead, the floral and tangy flavour is sweetened when cooked and then added to jams and seasonal sauces.
Orange fruit season
Sadly oranges are not grown in very large quantities at all across the UK. In stark contrast, Mediterranean countries and South Africa boast long citrus growing seasons throughout winter and early spring from roughly November to May. It is no surprise to learn that Spain remains the largest exporter of fresh oranges to the UK
Kiwi fruit season
The UK has numerous resilient kiwi varieties including the baby kiwi or arctic kiwi which are coming into season during January. These particular kiwi varieties are grown here in the UK and have a slightly more delicate flavour than more typically tangy kiwis.
Pear fruit season
Pears have a long season in the UK with popular varieties such as Conference and Comice on shelves throughout January. These two pear varieties are often harvested in the late autumn and kept in cool conditions to keep them frush and available during the winter months.
