California is witnessing a large harvest of cherries. “It’s one of the largest harvests we’ve had in the industry. It’s also a high-quality crop,” says Joe Cataldo of J&M Farms and Delta Packing Co. of Lodi, California. “The problem is that much of it is compressed.”
Although the season is delayed by a few days, California growers are aware that Washington, the next key region for cherry production on the West Coast, is ahead of schedule. “So there’s a rush to get into the market before Washington starts producing, which usually reduces the value of the crop,” he explains.
While some light harvests began at the end of April, the heavier harvests will start in the Lodi region at the end of this week and are expected to continue until around June 14.
As for demand, the environment is difficult right now, says Cataldo. “Cherries are still somewhat of a luxury item, and we’re in an economy where people are careful with their money,” he says. “The demand is there, and retailers are really aggressive and excited about cherries. The problem is that the prices are not fair for the growers. It’s getting to the point where it might not be sustainable for growers after Memorial Day.”
Memorial Day weekend is an important time for cherry production in the United States. However, growers continue to contend with the fact that prices have not increased, while labor costs have tripled. Growers are also producing better fruit.
Read the full article: FreshPlaza
Image: J&M Farms
18 Dec 2024
The incidence and progression of physiological disorders that may develop during prolonged storage is a topic that requires maximum attention. Determining optimal storage conditions for each cherry variety is of great importance for the industry and producers.
24 May 2024
Although the season is a few days late, Washington, which is close to cherry production on the West Coast, is early. ‘There is a rush to get into the market before Washington starts producing, which usually reduces the value of the crop.’
03 Jul 2026
Research in Moldova on sweet cherry shows Thin spindle improves yield, fruit quality and canopy management in high-density orchards on Gisela 6, while Improved thin spindle boosts large premium fruit, uniformity and commercial value for modern intensive cherry production.
03 Jul 2026
Chilean cherries 2025/26 face a more saturated China market, flat FOB prices and rising pressure on quality, timing and destinations. Diversification toward the United States and other markets is becoming crucial to protect Chile’s profitability and fruit exports now.
