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UK Gardeners Urged to Ditch Cauliflowers
12 Sep
Summary
- England's hottest summer on record impacts brassica harvests.
- RHS recommends drought-tolerant alternatives for gardeners.
- Climate change is making brassicas like cauliflower difficult to grow.
England's climate has changed significantly, prompting the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) to advise gardeners against growing thirsty brassica crops such as cauliflower, broccoli, and cabbage. This year's summer was the hottest on record, with temperatures peaking at 38.1C (100.1F) in London. Scientists attribute these heatwaves to the climate crisis, largely driven by fossil fuel consumption.
Many horticulturalists have already stopped growing cauliflower due to its unreliability in high temperatures and significant water needs. The RHS suggests alternatives like purple sprouting broccoli, which can thrive as a 'cut and come' crop. Other recommended swaps include kale for its drought resilience, and warmth-loving vegetables like tomatoes, peppers, melons, cucumbers, and okra, which have performed well during the heat.
Gardeners have successfully grown tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and sweet potatoes outdoors. Crops like melon and watermelon are also viable in some areas if watering needs are met. The RHS encourages embracing alternatives that are equally flavorful and nutritious, promising a better harvest guarantee amidst changing weather patterns. This shift aims to conserve water and adapt to more frequent heatwaves.
