Although California growers of cherries have been on the market with good supplies since early May, the number of organic cherries destined for national distribution is scarce. The situation is about to change with the harvest of Northwest cherries.
A month ago, growers, shippers, and packers of Northwest cherries expected an early start to the deal, but colder-than-expected weather has delayed this by about a week.
“In the initial harvest reports, we had anticipated potential picking dates for late May,” said Catherine Gipe-Stewart, marketing director of Domex Superfresh Growers in Yakima, Washington.
“However, the recently cooler temperatures over the last two weeks could slightly delay the season's start. Notably, these temperatures should enhance the flavor without causing concerns. Based on updated information from our field staff, we anticipate an early to mid-June start for organic cherries. Volumes will initially be modest, then gradually
increase until reaching a promotional volume by July 4th.”
She reported that the field team expects larger fruit this season, with a longer harvest schedule compared to 2023, due to more favorable temperatures and growing conditions. Gipe-Stewart said that Superfresh anticipates a volume increase for its organic cherry varieties, Dark Sweet and Rainier.
Although a higher volume of organic products is expected compared to last season, the Domex executive emphasized that organic cherries still represent only a small part of the total Northwest cherry crop.
“Since the volume of organic cherries always represents a smaller portion of the cherry crop, proactive planning is essential for those interested in securing organic cherry volumes,” Gipe-Stewart said, predicting a promotional volume in the category for about a month from mid-June to mid-July.
Last year, Superfresh added a third packing line for cherries, which allowed the company to reduce the time needed to get cherries from the orchard to the store shelves. Domex Superfresh Growers had the largest and longest cherry season in the last two seasons and expects to have the same result this year.
Hector Aguilera, product buyer for Heath and Lejeune - Soully Organic in Los Angeles, California, confirmed that the deal for California organic cherries is running out and all eyes are shifting north for new supplies. “There might be a gap between California and Washington,” he said on May 28. “I don’t think California fruit will last more than two or three weeks... probably two.”
Read the full article: Organic Produce Network
Image: Earl's Organic Cherries
23 Aug 2024
A study by Italian and Romanian universities evaluated the impact of cultivar and fruit position within the tree canopy during pre-ripening or full ripening on the quality parameters of organically grown cherries.
18 Feb 2025
The problem does not only concern Michigan. According to economist Ernie Goss, farms across the country are facing similar difficulties, with some regions, such as the Midwest, facing the onset of an agricultural recession.
06 Nov 2026
A study in three Israeli cherry orchards tests seismic sensors to detect Cerambyx dux larvae, track pest phenology and map infestations. Signals may reveal activity before visible symptoms and help target inspections, but further validation is needed.
06 Nov 2026
In Tasmania, trials by the Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture show GA₃ increases Lapins cherry firmness by about 20%. Application rate and timing affect fruit size and maturity as researchers examine how to balance quality, harvest timing and late-season markets locally.
