Northwest cherry growers are looking forward to a “cherrific” year!

Northwest cherry growers are hoping to continue last year’s success this year.

“From a consumer standpoint, I think we presented everything we possibly could,” said BJ Thurlby. “We had great fruit. We had the right price on it, and then because California was normal timing last year, we ended up with some big cherry displays over Memorial Day, which was before we even started. A lot of those cherry displays stayed right up front, and that had a very positive impact on the season overall.”

Thurlby says the sweet spot for price is between $4 and $5. As far as marketing is concerned, he says it is not as easy as marketing other fruits, like apples, which often get more shelf space.

LATEST STORIES BY THIS AUTHOR:

The American Farm Bureau Federation’s 2026 agenda centers on labor stability, biosecurity, and economic resilience for family farms. Expanded DMC coverage improves risk protection for dairy operations facing tighter margins.
Alex Templeton works alongside her dad, sharing her life through social media and her blog Ag Talk with Alex.
Secretary Rollins also met with specialty crop producers at a local strawberry farm to discuss workforce needs and the Trump Administration’s recent wins related to significantly cutting the cost of H-2A labor for California farmers.
Brent Graves, auctioneer and mentor, shares his journey supporting youth in agriculture, livestock competitions, and how he is turning junior livestock auctions into a classroom for youth in agriculture.
Agriculture Shows
Special 3-part series tells the story of the Claas family’s legacy, which changed agriculture forever.
From soil to harvest. Top Crop is an all-new series about four of the best farmers in the world—Dan Luepkes, of Oregan, Illinois; Cory Atley, of Cedarville, Ohio; Shelby Fite, of Jackson Center, Ohio; Russell Hedrick, of Hickory, North Carolina—reveals what it takes for them to make a profitable crop. It all starts with good soil, patience, and a strong planter setup.
Champions of Rural America is a half-hour dive into the legislative priorities for Rural America. Join us as we interview members of the Congressional Western Caucus to learn about efforts in Washington to preserve agriculture and tackles the most important topics in the ag industry on Champions of Rural America!
Featuring members of Congress, federal and state officials, ag and food leaders, farmers, and roundtable panelists for debates and discussions.