Cherries

European brown rot spore levels are high in tart cherry orchards

After examining European brown rot strikes from tart cherry tree samples in northwest Michigan, extensive sporulation was observed, particularly at the base of dead flowers infected last year. Initiate control sprays at popcorn this year.... more »

Growers, handlers vote to renew CIAB

Tart cherry growers and handlers have decided to extend the life of their industry’s federal marketing order, known as the Cherry Industry Administrative Board (CIAB), for another six years.USDA recently announced the results of the... more »

Fresh fruit exports increase in 2013

Fiscal year 2013 proved to be another record-breaking year for U.S. agricultural exports, according to USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).In fiscal year 2013, U.S. agricultural exports increased by $5 billion, bringing the... more »

European brown rot could hit cherries again

There was a major outbreak of European brown rot in Michigan’s tart cherry crop in spring 2013. Hopefully, there won’t be an outbreak this year, but much depends on the weather, said George Sundin, a... more »

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... more »

What has this harsh winter done to Michigan’s fruit crop?

The harsh winter has not only been tough on us, it will also have an impact on Michigan's fruit crop.A fruit tree, grape vine, or small fruit bush is hardy down to a certain temperature.... more »

Michigan tree fruit growers approve research program

Michigan’s tree fruit producers have approved a referendum to establish the Michigan Tree Fruit Research & Development Program, according to Jamie Clover Adams, director of the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). Clover... more »

IFTA hands out awards at annual conference

British Columbia orchardist David Geen was named Outstanding Grower of the Year by the International Fruit Tree Association at its annual conference Feb. 24 in Kelowna, British Columbia.Geen owns Coral Beach Farms, near Kelowna, B.C.,... more »