Mar 20, 2014

Sweet cherry production down 22 percent

United States sweet cherry production in 2013 is estimated at 331,520 tons, down 22 percent from 2012, according to a report released March 17 by USDA.

The cherry crop in the Northwest region experienced cold, blustery weather during the first part of the bloom period that adversely affected pollination. Late April and early May freezes also took a toll on the crop. The Washington and Oregon crops were also adversely affected by heavy rains during early June and again in July, causing splitting of the fruit for many producers.

In California, growers reported frosts and heavy rains early in the spring that hindered pollination and reduced the crop potential. Dry conditions while the crop was developing limited fruit size, while rains after harvest had begun for the early varieties caused some fruit to split, making it unmarketable.

Idaho growers reported their crop was affected by warm temperatures early in the spring that brought on an early bloom. This was followed by several consecutive days of temperatures below 28 degrees during bloom, which killed blossoms.

In Michigan, a late spring frost with temperatures in the upper 20s in many areas resulted in reports of heavy fruit drop in the southeastern part of the state.

New York growers reported harvest was in full swing by July 1. Many farmers reported a heavy crop, but there was some splitting due to heat and moisture, and some producers reported losing their entire crop due to rain and bird damage.

In Utah, cold rainy weather during bloom hindered pollination. Some growers reported damage due to cold weather while the cherries were on the bud. Bird, wind, and hail damage were also reported, according to the report.