Millions of lettuces ruined by UK aphid outbreak
Summary
UK lettuce farmers are losing about £10 million due to a huge outbreak of aphids, small insects that harm the crops. Around 30 million lettuces are expected to be wasted this season because of warm and dry weather, which helps aphids to multiply.Key Facts
- Aphids have caused serious damage to UK lettuce farms, especially in many parts of England.
- About 30% of UK lettuce crops from now until the end of October may be wasted.
- UK growers produce around 500 million heads of lettuce each season.
- The outbreak may cause more imported lettuces to appear on UK shelves earlier than usual.
- Warm and dry weather has created good conditions for aphids to thrive.
- Last year also saw problems with aphids, and a mild winter may have helped their population grow.
- The National Farmers' Union is supporting farmers by working with researchers and plant breeders to manage the problem.
- The current losses affect the end of the growing season, lasting a few weeks.
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