More Cherry Update

More Cherry Update.   I’m Greg Martin with today’s Fruit Grower Report.

There have been a few reports that we might have some cherries this season. BJ Thurlby, President of NW Cherry Growers confirms it.

THURLBY: I’ve been in orchards and sheds for the last 7 days morning, noon and night. These are the most consistent colored early cherries I think I have ever seen. The consistency is there, the tree is full of cherries that I think there is a market for so that’s very positive.

Growers have been very excited about this year’s crop even though a few reports have come in about minor damage but as Thurlby says, it is very minor.

THURLBY: Well there was a little rain in this neck of the woods last night and by a little meaning I think it might have rained for an hour but it stayed cool all day and I mean there’s no damage and I’ve had a great chance to talk to a lot of growers today and everybody’s pretty positive.

Growing weather has been excellent and now Thurlby says it’s a matter of moving the crop to the consumers.

THURLBY: Around the country you know one or two retailers have really bought into this California thing and helped move their whole crop and then everyone else according to all my reps that are looking at the stores it’s been very small displays so far so we’ve got a lot of room to grow this thing.

That’s today’s Fruit Grower Report. I’m Greg Martin on the Northwest Ag Information Network.