Because of California's wet weather, the cherry season was interrupted and supplies were tight throughout the last several weeks. With Washington's cherry season around the corner, we were joined by Mike Taylor, Director of Sales at Stemilt Growers, to get the latest on cherry varieties that are expected to begin production in the next few weeks. Chelans will start this week, followed by Bings. July 20th to August 10th is expected to be peak season, offering both the best volume and best cost. High elevation varieties will be in production from mid August to early September, Rainier cherries, the most popular variety, will harvest July, in time for mid-month promotions. With California's season shortened, retailers are scrambling to fill the aisles. Demand currently exceeds supply, and cherries will remain in short supply until July. On the bright side, Mr. Taylor reports cherry quality to be fantastic.<hr class="legacyRuler"><hr class="invisible minimal-padding">
