This year’s first batch of Comber potatoes will hit Northern Ireland’s shelves on June 11th, just 24 hours after being harvested in North Down—a notable achievement given last year’s late June harvest. Wilson’s Country sales and marketing manager, Joanne Weir, highlights the crop’s popularity, stating, “New season Comber potatoes remain a firm favourite with consumers of all ages across Northern Ireland.”
Weather Extremes Test Growers’ Resilience
2025 has brought unprecedented challenges, with six weeks of near-drought conditions stressing early crops. Grower William Gilmore from Newtownards noted, “All the crops were crying out for rain.” Fortunately, recent rainfall has alleviated the situation. However, the success of this year’s crop also stems from optimal planting conditions between late January and mid-March, allowing varieties like Home Guard, Accord, Queen’s Navan, and Sagitta to thrive.
Skill and Sustainable Practices Ensure Quality
Stuart Meredith, Wilson’s Country agronomist, praised growers for their expertise: “The spring of 2025 has been one of the driest and warmest on record. Achieving high yields reflects years of soil management and precision farming.” Remarkably, Gilmore’s success came without polythene covers or irrigation, showcasing sustainable resilience.
Growing Demand: Potatoes Regain Popularity
Potato consumption is rising, particularly among younger demographics, driven by their nutritional benefits, affordability, and versatility. Weir adds, “Early potatoes have a unique ‘earthy’ flavour—perfect for quick meals or salads, aligning with consumers’ desire for simplicity.”
Northern Ireland’s potato growers have demonstrated remarkable adaptability in the face of extreme weather, combining traditional knowledge with innovation to secure a high-quality early harvest. As demand for potatoes grows, their role in sustainable, nutritious diets becomes ever more vital.
