It has already spawned a booming wine industry and led to hopes that an extra virgin olive oil production line could be around the corner.
Now growers believe that Britain’s warming climate could mean it is goodbye to apples, rhubarb and berries and hello to oranges, lemons and mandarins.
Most commonly associated with the landscapes of the Mediterranean and California, citruses have taken root in what is thought to be Britain’s first grove.
Average temperatures 5C higher than the rest of the country make for good growing conditions on the Isle of Wight
VENTNOR BOTANIC GARDEN/SOLENT NEWS
Gardeners at Ventnor Botanic Garden on the Isle of Wight have planted 30 varieties of citrus plants, taking advantage of its southerly location, protected from cold northerly winds by the steep chalk hills above.
While the gardens are primed for growing citrus fruit, with temperatures that are 5C higher on average than
