Harvesting of cherries has started in California for a season which is expected to be short. Spring weather affected the crop's bloom period and is likely to cause lower volumes of cherries than in previous years."We've had some weather issues this season," said David Thiessen of Stillwater Orchards. "Cool weather during spring made for a long bloom period." That long bloom period will most likely make for lower volumes and a mix of maturity among fruit. That mixed maturity will, in turn, cause an uneven harvest.
Stillwater Orchards, which will begin harvesting their cherries at the end of the week, will pick cherries for three weeks. Throughout the state, many growers are expecting production periods that are shorter than normal.
The bright side for consumers, noted Thiessen, is that quality will be excellent on available fruit, and for growers, demand will be high.
"Quality looks excellent," he said, "and both domestic and export demand are good." With good demand and a limited early supplies, prices should remain strong.