Northern Ireland's Potato Crops Struggle Due to Changing Weather Conditions

Northern Ireland's potato crops are being affected by changing weather conditions, with producers warning that the dry February followed by below-average rainfall is impacting growth.

Fifth-generation potato farmer William Gilmore, of Gilmore Farm Produce in County Down, is already lifting his early harvest but is worried about the second potato crop of the year, which requires regular water to fill out and grow.

Angus Wilson of potato producers Wilson's Country agrees that climate change is contributing to the weather patterns, which have resulted in a shortfall of about two million tonnes of potatoes in Europe in 2022, the driest year on record.

This has led to an increase in demand and a potential rise in prices for potatoes, which are used widely across the food industry.

While the rising costs of inputs such as fuel and fertiliser have made it difficult for growers, the increasing price of potatoes could provide some relief.

However, the industry remains concerned about the impact of the changing weather conditions on future crops.