As spring unfurls in the Northwest, apricot trees have hit full bloom for Wenatchee, WA-based Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers. Sean Gilbert, manager of OSRG’s Gilbert Orchards in the Yakima Valley of Washington, said on April 6 that “bees are working 100 percent on a beautiful day in Wapato. Looks like we'll have a full crop of ‘cots.”
On the heels of the apricot bloom come NW cherries, which Oneonta Marketing Director Scott Marboe said should start to see bloom in the earliest districts in another week.
Apricot trees are in full bloom for Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers. Photo courtesy of Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers.
Last year’s the apricot bloom came early and first shipments started on June 3. Gilbert said the 2017 stone fruit could ship “about 18 days later than last year.”
“Cherry trees were also in full bloom the first weekend in April last season, but this year we are much later,” Marboe said. “The way it is shaping up now, we should see a few early cherry varieties ready to ship by June 12.”
And while no one can second-guess Mother Nature and the onset of warm weather may accelerate the season, buyers should expect great opportunities for apricots in late June and into July. Cherries should be at their peak throughout July.
Contact:
Scott Marboe
Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers
Tel: 509-663-2191