Business · 12 August 2026

Dry summer weather means fewer, smaller potatoes for UK farmers

Potato farmers across the UK are facing big losses as hot, dry summer conditions have damaged crops. An agronomist said the lack of water means potatoes may not be as numerous or high quality as usual this harvest. One farmer in Ross-on-Wye reported his potato yields are down by up to 50% in some areas.

By BriefTea Editorial · 12 August 2026 at 9:18

Reported by bbc.co.uk · How we write briefs

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How does this affect UK food security? Is climate change making this worse? What is an 'agronomist'? Why are potatoes so important?

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