Organic cherries: early delay in California, but higher volumes and quality by 2023

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

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