Crop update: September

Stuart Lawson, produce technical manager at fresh produce supplier Reynolds, reviews availability for the weeks ahead

Large carrots are currently in very short supply. Although the new UK season is under way, a lack of rainfall earlier in the year, coupled with higher than average temperatures, has slowed crop growth somewhat. New season parsnips are holding up much better.

Stored potatoes from last season are now all but finished. Fortunately, new season main crop is coming through on schedule, but the skins are not yet fully set, so produce is easily damaged.

UK strawberries remain difficult as the wet and warm conditions continue to affect fruit quality and shelf-life. Other home-grown berries are faring much better.

The first English apples will be appearing shortly, with Discovery the first variety to be harvested as always. British cherries should be available for a few more weeks yet and English plums are beginning to come through, so make the most of this short season.

Finally, take full advantage of European melons for the next month or so before supply turns to Brazilian fruit, which never eats quite as well.