U.S. tart cherry production is forecast at 309 million pounds, up 39 percent from the 2015 production. In Michigan, the largest producing state, growers were confident about the tart cherry crop with higher forecasted yields than last year. The crop was developing on schedule with good growth on trees reported throughout the state.
Utah growers reported a crop that will result in relatively good production. Favorable conditions contributed to good yields.
In Wisconsin, the major tart cherry growing area of the state escaped a late frost and growers were looking forward to a good year.
In Washington, growers reported a record early harvest this year due to warm weather.
New York growers anticipate a less than average crop this year. Most growers reporting low production cited freeze and frost at bloom.
U.S. sweet cherry production is forecast at 318,000 tons, down 6 percent from 2015. In California, counties with the largest production reported substantial damage to cherries due to heavy rains early in May which significantly reduced the crop. Some growers ceased harvesting after finding cracks in 50 to 70 percent of their cherries.
Growers in Oregon and Washington reported a record early harvest this year due to warm weather.
In Michigan, growers were optimistic about having a better crop than in 2015. Sweet cherries were generally reported as developing on schedule and growth looked good throughout the state.