UK and Ireland See Record Giant Strawberry Crop

Unusually sunny weather this spring has produced a bumper crop of giant strawberries in both the UK and Ireland, with many British berries measuring 10-20% larger than usual and weighing up to 50g. The combination of bright days, cool nights, and high light levels—following the darkest early winter months and the sunniest March and April since 1910—has made for slow-developing, exceptionally sweet, and flavorful fruit. Irish growers report similar results, with the added note that smaller berries later in the season are especially sweet and ripe. Farmers and consumers alike have welcomed the phenomenon, though concerns remain about potential water shortages affecting future harvests. Experts recommend slicing the largest strawberries to make them easier to eat. The surge in giant strawberries is expected to be particularly popular during traditional events such as Wimbledon.