South West cider farms report 'lighter' apple crops due to heat

Zhara Simpson Devon Sampford Courtenay Cider Alison McIlwraith said apples had already started dropping from the trees. Cider producers across the South West have reported that hot, dry weather has led to smaller apples and lighter crops. Alison McIlwraith, owner of Sampford Courtenay Cider in Okehampton, expects to produce only 10% of the cider this year compared to last year due to the dry summer following a wet spring. She noted the trees looked autumnal early but assured customers there would still be plenty of cider for the season. Lorraine O'Connor, director of a cider farm in Redruth, said their apples had already started dropping, resulting in a smaller yield compared to last year. Cuckoo Valley Cider’s O'Connor, who runs a 7.5-acre farm with 2,000 apple trees and plans to plant 2,000 more in the next five years, said they aimed for at least 10 to 12 tonnes of apples this year. She noted early leaf changes due to persistent hot and dry weather, with recent rainfall reversing some of the yellowing. Despite fewer apples, they expect a yield but confirm less cider volume for the following year. Barney Butterfield, owner of Sandford Orchards Devon, said older apple trees are resilient survivors, with deep roots allowing them to access moisture. He explained that while some trees struggled in 2025, this year’s conditions were less harsh, and the biannual nature of apple crops means lighter years are normal. He emphasized the role of trees in climate sustainability. Both farmers reassured customers that despite reduced yields, there would still be enough cider for the season due to last year’s large harvest.