The California cherry season in 2025 is starting with a delay of about one week compared to the historical average and with a lower-than-expected production. Unstable weather conditions during blooming—characterized by rain, wind, and heat spikes—have affected the yield of early varieties, particularly Coral and Bing.
Despite the decrease in volumes, the quality of the cherries is expected to be high. The fruits show larger sizes and an excellent appearance, especially for late-ripening varieties, which are currently in full bloom.
Harvest is expected to begin around May 5, with "promotable" volumes lasting until June 10.
The Coral and Bing varieties, which together represent a significant share of California’s production, have experienced a notable decline. In the Central San Joaquin Valley, Coral production could drop by 20–30% compared to the previous year, decreasing from 5 to 3 tons per acre (approximately 11.2 to 6.7 tons per hectare).
Bing has also shown poor blooming in the Stockton and Lodi regions, with expected shipments of about 1 million cartons, compared to 2 million last year.
The combination of reduced production and rising harvest costs presents economic challenges for growers. Joe Cataldo, president of J&M Farms and Delta Packing Co., notes that market prices that are too low could make it difficult to cover costs, also negatively affecting the Northwest Pacific market.
Additionally, the presence of new early varieties, often unfamiliar to consumers, requires effective communication strategies to prevent negative experiences that could hurt future sales, including those of premium varieties like Bing.
Exports to Asia, traditionally important for California cherries, could be limited this year due to tariffs, unfavorable exchange rates, and high air freight costs.
This situation mirrors similar dynamics in European markets, where varietal differentiation and consumer loyalty have become crucial for the industry's sustainability.
The 2025 California cherry season represents a litmus test for the entire supply chain, facing climatic, economic, and communication challenges.
The promising fruit quality offers an opportunity to strengthen market position, provided that targeted and collaborative strategies are adopted across the value chain.
Source: fruitnet.com
Image source: freepik.com
30 Jan 2025
The challenge for regional production is to distinguish itself on the market through quality, as late production is no longer a differentiating factor. To date, the region has 244 hectares dedicated to cherry production in the Chile Chico Valley.
06 Feb 2025
“Shipments in California (2024) peaked on May 17, compared to June 12 in 2023. That’s a good thing,” said B.J. Thurlby, president of the Northwest Cherry Growers, in his assessment of the 2024 season.
13 Nov 2026
Rain and hail in Chile have damaged crops, while a truckers’ strike in San Antonio threatens shipments. Cherry output could reach about 115 million boxes, below the 140 million estimate. Weather and logistics are clouding the 2026-2027 season and its export outlook.
13 Nov 2026
Cherry leaf roll virus affects sweet, sour and black cherry trees. It is regulated in Canada, where symptoms may appear about five years after infection. The article outlines how it spreads and measures to prevent its introduction and contain the virus in orchards.
