Mike Renouard, business unit director at The Jersey Royal Company, said a significant period of dry weather had allowed them to ‘catch up’ and lift the first outdoor crop in time for the start of the season.
Mr Renouard said they had been picking indoor Royals since the end of February. This will now stop in time for the outdoor crop.
‘There is always anticipation over the first outdoor crop of the year,’ he said. ‘There is a perception that the first batch always tastes better.
‘Demand always outstretches supply at this time of the year but as the season goes on we will begin lifting Royals in great volume.’
Earlier this year, the Island experienced the tenth-wettest January since records began in 1894. This had delayed the planting process significantly, as the fields were too wet.
However, a continued dry spell of weather throughout March has allowed farmers to play catch-up.
‘We are probably lifting a week later than we would have liked but we should be able to make that time up as the season goes on,’ said Mr Renouard.
He added that farmers were ‘way ahead’ compared to last year, and he hoped this year’s would be a positive season.
‘We had terrible weather all throughout the planting season last year, so we are in a much better position,’ he said.
Mr Renouard said farmers were now hoping for a spell of rain, as some fields were beginning to dry out.
‘Everything is dependent on conditions, and you can never get it perfect. We could do with a little bit of wet weather, as things are starting to dry out a little.’
He added: ‘With things getting back to normal in the UK and hospitality venues opening over there, soon we should see an increase in demand.
‘If people cannot get away this summer, hopefully they will have more barbecues at home and purchase some more
Royals.’
