The summer of 2026 has been the hottest on record. Read on as Co-Head Grower, Harley reflects on the realities of what it was like for those working out in the fields at what is already the busiest time of year.
As the days become cooler, the morning light shifts and myself and the rest of the farm's growing team begin digging out our dusty jumpers and waterproofs, we have begun reflecting on the relentlessness that was Summer 2026 - oh what a scorcher!
Over the past few months, as temperatures soared and numerous meteorological records were smashed, farmers and growers all over the country had an incredibly challenging time. Here at the farm it was no different. Our growers and volunteers have done extraordinarily well managing the workload in the heat. Working hours were adjusted to avoid the hottest hours of the day, with plenty more early starts than we’d normally have during peak harvest time. The entire team have shown superhuman resilience, managing to remain motivated and positive, whilst also remembering to keep up with the huge amounts of fluid intake and sun cream applications!
At our farm in the Chew Valley, we grow on a ‘sandy loam’. This soil type is particularly susceptible to dry weather as any rainfall we do get, drains through or evaporates much quicker than on heavier soils, making it hard to keep on top of the irrigation requirements. In turn, this has meant that some pests, such as flea beetle, have relished the hot dry conditions, completely decimating many of our brassica crops and leafy greens. Overall, we expect to be about 20% down on sales of our own crops at the end of the season.
However, not all crops have suffered, and some have been hugely productive in the heat. Namely our aubergines and cherry tomatoes, which have thrived in the polytunnels and are still being enjoyed by our box customers. Our squash crop has also performed incredibly well, helped along by an initial irrigation on planting, and the rain storms in July (remember them?!), followed by the copious sunshine. These conditions mean that the field is now bursting with so many beautiful varieties.
All in all, it’s been a growing season to remember! These climactic shifts we’re experiencing help to remind us each day of the reasons behind why we’re farming in the way that we do. With nature, biodiversity, soil health and climate resilience at the heart of how we grow our food, we are playing our part in the future of our local food security.
