NASHVILLE, TENN. (RFD NEWS) — California cherry growers are facing major crop losses after spring heat and rain hit orchards during a short harvest window. The California Farm Bureau reports San Joaquin County lost 63 percent of its cherry crop, with estimated losses of $174 million.
The damage started with an early heat wave that hurt fruit set in several orchards. Then April and May storms caused splitting, decay, and shorter shelf life as the fruit matured.
Statewide production is now expected to be below 5 million 18-pound boxes, compared with a recent five-year average of 8 million boxes. California is the nation’s second-largest cherry-producing state behind Washington.
The quality problem is also an export problem. California cherries rely heavily on the fresh market, and premium fruit normally moves to buyers in Canada, South Korea, and Japan.
Several counties are reviewing disaster declarations, while crop insurance may help growers cover some costs.
Farm-Level Takeaway: Weather losses are cutting California cherry volume, reducing export-quality fruit and creating another difficult year for growers.
Tony St. James, RFD News Markets Specialist
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