Though California's cherry harvest is still several months away, the state's cherry growers have seen promising signs this winter. Plenty of chill hours and more rain than in previous years are providing good conditions for this season's crop.
“We have had rain and we have had cold weather this winter,” said Francisco Ilic with King Fresh Produce. “The early portion of the California crop is always difficult to set, because high temperatures in winter can disrupt the crop. But this year we had good chilling hours.”
King Fresh sources their cherries from the Central Valley, and the rain the region has received this winter will go a ways to making this year's crop a good one. Any effects from too much rain brought on by El Nino have yet to materialize.
“El Nino could cause problems if it brings too much rain in spring,” said Ilic. “That's when you see cracks in the fruit and some decay. But, right now, we are expecting a good season because we've had good growing weather.”
For more information:
Francisco Ilic
King Fresh Produce
+1 559 596 2040