Year 2016 is seeing an early bloom for cherries in the Northwest, and Scott Marboe, director of marketing at Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers in Wenatchee, WA, reports that most of the state saw full bloom by the first weekend in April.
“Later districts will have full bloom by 9-10,” he added. “With temperatures forecast to be in the low 80s by Friday and long-term conditions expected to be mild and nice, it looks like we are setting up for an early start and possible an early finish as well,” Marboe said of the season.
It’s not the earliest start on record – 2015 holds that distinction – but right now 2016 looks to be the third-earliest bloom on record.
“Last year was the earliest, and we’re only a few days behind,” Marboe said, adding, “It will create challenges again. We anticipate our first cherries to be harvested right around May 30, with Chelans possibly coming in even earlier. Volume is expected to come on fast as well, with first peaks the latter part of June 6. That means Fourth of July ads will be good.”
Marboe said buyers should “look for great opportunities throughout July, but once again, as we saw last year, the early start could bring this season to an end in early to mid-August. And of course summer heat will play into the season’s progress as well.”
Photo information:
Cherries are close to full bloom across the Northwest, with a May 30 harvest expected for early varieties. Photo by Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers
For additional information, contact:
Scott Marboe, Director of Marketing
Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers
One Oneonta Way, Wenatchee, WA 98801
scottm@starranch.com | 509-888-5120
Founded in the heart of Washington’s apple country in 1934, Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers is a leading fruit grower, packer and shipper that provides its domestic and international customers with quality apples, pears, cherries, stone fruit, grapes and citrus. Visit us on line at www.oneonta.com and www.facebook.com/oneonta.
Source: Oneonta Starr Ranch Growers