Growers say 2026 could be the sweetest year ever, but renew calls for urgent water support
British blackberries are tasting extra sweet this year as the summer’s exceptional heat has intensified the fruit’s natural sugars, according to crop association British Berry Growers (BBG).
The UK has experienced multiple consecutive heatwaves in 2026, including England’s warmest June on record.
Growers said the sustained warmth has translated directly into sweetness as the heat has accelerated sugar development in the fruit.
Oli Pascall, managing director at Clock House Farm near Kent, said: “Many people still think of blackberries as tart and sour in taste, but commercially-grown berries are very different. This could be the sweetest crop we’ve ever grown.
“British blackberries are naturally sweet and make the perfect healthy treat. Their deep purple-black colour comes from beneficial plant compounds, including antioxidants and anthocyanins,” he added.
While the heat has produced exceptionally sweet fruit, BBG said extreme conditions also highlight the importance of continued investment in water infrastructure to ensure future resilience.
Over two-thirds of England has been declared in drought after a record dry July. Growers in Suffolk have reported early blackberry yields due to high summer temperatures and the plants being “stressed by the lack of water”.
BBG has previously stated that planning constraints, the cost of major water infrastructure, and the current abstraction regime is compromising future British food production. The NFU has also called for ‘immediate’ water action to ensure food security.
Nick Marston, chair of BBG, said: “The reality of this summer’s heat is something our growers have felt directly, but it hasn’t caught British growers unprepared.
“Over recent years, British growers have collectively invested millions of pounds over many years to improve resilience to these conditions. That includes developing secure water supplies, from winter storage reservoirs to highly efficient, computer-controlled drip irrigation systems that deliver water precisely where it’s needed.”
He continued: “Those investments mean British growers have been able to continue producing outstanding-quality blackberries despite the challenging weather. But climate change means we cannot be complacent.
“Government support to increase water security is becoming ever more important. We need many more on-farm reservoirs to ensure growers can continue producing healthy, sustainable British fruit for the future,” he added.
