A disastrous growing season for the cherry crop in northwestern Lower Michigan is leading to calls for federal aid and a growing sense that climate change is compromising the health of this iconic fruit.
The sweet cherry crop has been declared a failure, and similar conditions have affected tart cherries. It is estimated that this year cherry growers have lost between 30 to 75% of their crop. Governor Gretchen Whitmer has requested federal assistance for cherry growers, including low-interest loans and funds to rehabilitate or replant affected trees.
Michigan is the leading producer of tart cherries in the United States. In 2022, Michigan produced 180 million pounds of cherries worth 36.5 million dollars.
Tim Boring, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD), states that weather patterns related to climate change are damaging the agricultural industry. "Building climate resilience is one of our top priorities at MDARD. We know that the long-term prosperity and vitality of Michigan agriculture, especially our specialty crops, depends on our ability to adapt to changing climate conditions,” Boring said.
According to experts, the weather is becoming more erratic and less predictable. One of the causes is the constant warming of Lake Michigan, which in spring poses a higher risk of early blooming in cherry trees.
This year's issues were caused by weather variability. The mild winter of 2023-2024 led to an increase in insect populations. A warm, wet spring and early summer resulted in a surge in populations of spotted-wing drosophila and rapid development of fungi, including cherry leaf spot and American brown rot.
Emily Miezio of Suttons Bay, a farmer in Leelanau County and a member of the Michigan Cherry Committee, said that cherry growers who have been in the business for many years have told her they've never seen a growing season like this one.
Read the full article: FLOW
Image: SL Fruit Service
23 Sep 2025
Retractable roof systems like AutoDry™ are being tested in Canada and Australia to protect orchards—especially cherries—from rain and heat. These solutions aim to boost fruit quality, yields, and profits, helping growers recover from years of climate-related losses.
01 May 2023
FRUIT LUXURY COMPANY S.L., a family business located in Albalate de Cinca (Huesca), has six hectares of cherry trees cultivated in greenhouses with the aim of anticipating production and protecting them from bad weather such as rain, hail or wind.
03 Jun 2026
Pea protein combined with sour cherry phenols can improve solubility, emulsion stability and nutritional value. The study points to fresh opportunities for plant-based emulsions, functional beverages and innovative nutraceutical formulations for sustainable food markets.
03 Jun 2026
In 2026 Uzbek cherries show lower volumes down 20-40%, but stronger quality: 26+ mm fruit, high Brix and export prices up to USD 7.40/kg. Premium cultivars, cold chain discipline and MAP packaging support growth in Russia, the Middle East and Europe across premium markets.
