The forecast for U.S. sweet cherry production in 2024 stands at 355,000 tons, marking a modest increase over the previous year. Washington, the leading producer, anticipates a yield of 185,000 tons, reflecting an 11 percent decrease from 2023, while Oregon expects a 43,000-ton harvest, up 11 percent from the prior year.

Despite challenges, the sector remains resilient, with the United States Department of Agriculture noting a projected rise in both sweet and tart cherry outputs, totalling around 355,000 tons for the West Coast. Over half of the nation’s sweet cherries originate from Washington, where the industry is showing signs of improvement after recent adversities.

Jon DeVaney, president of the Washington State Fruit Association, highlighted the nuanced nature of cherry cultivation, extending from late May to late August. DeVaney also noted the exceptional quality of this season’s cherries, attributing it to beneficial late-season cold spells. Despite early weather-related bud damage, the lighter crop has led to larger fruit sizes, offering a silver lining to growers.

Source: Fresh Plaza