We have now completed our drilling survey for the 2013 crop. This year we have drilled 32,324 hectares of peas and petits pois for freezing and canning. This compares to 32,220 hectares drilled in 2012. In February we asked for estimated drilling areas and this totalled 31,707 hectares. So despite the changes in the industry, and the poor 2012 season, we are about the same area as last year.
A very late start to the season this year with some reports that
there might be some peas ready next week but most are looking at
w/c 8th July in England. In Scotland the very earliest harvest
start is estimated around the 12th July, but it is all totally
weather dependent. With generally cool conditions, particularly
night time temperatures, it is a slow game at present.
On the continent, Portugal had 50% of their crop, Spain was OK
but no great volumes. In Southern France they are 50% through the
crop and 20% down on tonnage so far. Northern Europe are in the
same position as us, waiting for peas to mature to start the
harvest.
We will keep you informed regularly through the harvest season,
when it starts!