More than 300 growers and industry professionals attended the British Carrot Growers Association’s biggest-ever Demonstration Day at a 270-acre site near York.
Hosted by BCGA chair Rodger Hobson, the event featured more than 70 variety trial plots and 39 exhibitors presenting innovations in genetics, production systems and crop management after an exceptionally hot, dry season.
Heat and drought test varieties
Hobson said the trials allowed growers to compare how varieties performed in exceptionally dry conditions and assess genetics already used in hotter countries, including Italy, Spain and Israel.
“Variety choice and selection is vital for us to adapt to climatic changes,” he said.
North Yorkshire experienced five heatwaves during the 2026 season, with temperatures exceeding 30°C. Hobson said an early May heatwave killed about 10% of emerging seedlings and shocked the remainder, although irrigation helped the crop recover ahead of the event.
Ambyance retains taste title
BASF Nunhems won the event’s “best in taste” competition for the third consecutive year with its Ambyance variety, following votes from attendees.
Hobson described the demonstration as vibrant despite the pressures growers faced during the season. He thanked sponsors Elsoms Seeds, Hazera Seeds and BASF Nunhems, along with co-organisers Holly Jones and Sam Pope of the British Growers Association.
British Carrot Day
The event was followed by British Carrot Day on Saturday 3 October. Established by the BCGA in 2023, the social media campaign aims to increase consumption and highlight the realities of producing carrots at scale, as well as their value and versatility.
The association also announced that 2027 will be the Year of the Carrot, following the Year of the Cabbage in 2026.
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