Drought leaves 'barely any apples' to make cider
Summary
A severe drought in Somerset has caused apple trees used for cider-making to produce far fewer apples than usual, with many apples dropping early or rotting. Cider producers are facing lower harvests this year, although demand for cider has been strong due to hot weather.Key Facts
- Somerset's cider orchards have been heavily affected by a long summer drought.
- Many apple trees produced very little or no fruit because of stress from the dry weather.
- Kimberly Jones’ orchard produced only about 10% of its usual apple crop.
- Some orchards have apples that fell early and have rotted before ripening.
- George Scott’s cider farm, normally harvesting 20-30 tonnes of apples, has very little fruit this year.
- Cider makers have some stock saved from previous years but worry about ongoing drought impacts.
- Hot weather increased cider sales, but the shortage of apples threatens future production.
- Climate experts warn that more hot and dry summers may continue, putting orchards at risk.
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