Cherries, those delectable jewels of summer, are a much-anticipated treat. Knowing when to harvest them is crucial to enjoying their peak flavor and texture. Unlike some fruits with a more predictable harvest window, cherries can vary considerably depending on the variety, the climate, and even the specific microclimate of your orchard or backyard. This guide will delve into the factors affecting cherry harvest time and help you determine the best time to pick your own.
Understanding Cherry Harvest Seasons: A Month-by-Month Breakdown
The primary cherry harvesting season in most temperate regions falls between late spring and mid-summer. This translates roughly to June, July, and sometimes even early August. However, this is a broad generalization. The specific month you harvest depends heavily on several factors that we will explore.
Sweet Cherries: The Stars of the Season
Sweet cherries are generally the first to ripen. You’ll often find the earliest varieties, like ‘Chelan’, starting to turn red in late May or early June in warmer areas. ‘Bing’, probably the most popular sweet cherry, typically ripens in mid to late June. Other popular varieties like ‘Rainier’ (the golden cherry) and ‘Lapins’ tend to ripen slightly later, stretching into early to mid-July.
Keep in mind that these are just averages. A particularly warm spring could advance the harvest by a week or two, while a cool, wet spring could delay it. Therefore, relying solely on calendar dates isn’t enough.
Tart Cherries: A Pucker-Perfect Delight
Tart cherries, also known as sour cherries, usually follow sweet cherries in the harvest sequence. ‘Montmorency’, the most common tart cherry variety, is generally ready for picking from late June through mid-July. Again, the specific timing will depend on your location and the weather conditions. Tart cherries have a shorter ripening window than sweet cherries, so monitoring them closely is key.
Late-Season Varieties: Extending the Cherry Enjoyment
For those who crave cherries beyond the typical summer window, some late-season varieties can extend the harvest into late July and even early August. These varieties, often sweet cherries bred for their longer ripening period, allow for a more extended period of enjoying fresh cherries.
Factors Influencing Cherry Ripening Time
Several interconnected factors determine when your cherries will be ready to pick. Understanding these factors will empower you to make accurate harvest assessments.
Variety Matters: Genetic Predisposition
As mentioned earlier, the specific variety of cherry is the most significant factor influencing ripening time. Each variety has a genetically predetermined window for ripening, influenced by the number of “degree days” required for the fruit to mature. Degree days are a measure of accumulated heat above a certain base temperature. Knowing the variety you’re growing is therefore the first step in anticipating the harvest.
Climate and Location: The Geography of Cherry Growing
Climate plays a vital role. Regions with warmer springs and summers will naturally experience earlier cherry harvests than cooler regions. Latitude is also important; orchards in southern areas generally ripen earlier than those further north. The altitude of the orchard also influences temperatures, with higher altitudes tending to have cooler temperatures and later harvests.
Weather Conditions: The Unpredictable Element
Weather patterns within a season can dramatically shift the expected harvest time. A warm spring can accelerate ripening, while a cold snap or excessive rain can delay it. Similarly, a long, sunny summer will promote faster ripening and higher sugar content in the fruit. Consistent monitoring of local weather forecasts is crucial as the harvest approaches.
Microclimate: The Localized Environment
Even within a single orchard or backyard, variations in microclimate can affect ripening. South-facing slopes, for example, receive more direct sunlight and tend to be warmer than north-facing slopes. Trees planted in sheltered locations are often protected from harsh winds and experience more consistent temperatures. The presence of buildings or other structures can also create localized microclimates.
Tree Health and Age: The Plant’s Condition
A healthy, well-maintained cherry tree will typically produce fruit that ripens more predictably and evenly. Trees that are stressed by disease, pests, or nutrient deficiencies may have delayed or uneven ripening. Younger trees often take longer to begin producing fruit, and the initial harvests may be smaller and less predictable. Proper pruning, fertilization, and pest control are essential for optimal cherry production.
Rootstock Influence: A Hidden Factor
The rootstock upon which a cherry tree is grafted can also influence ripening time. Certain rootstocks promote earlier ripening, while others delay it. This is because the rootstock affects the overall vigor and growth habit of the tree. When purchasing a cherry tree, it’s worth considering the rootstock used and its potential impact on ripening.
Determining Cherry Ripeness: Beyond the Calendar
While knowing the approximate harvest month is helpful, relying solely on the calendar is a recipe for disappointment. Accurate assessment of ripeness requires careful observation and testing.
Color: The Visual Cue
The color of the cherry is one of the most obvious indicators of ripeness. Sweet cherries will transition from green to yellow to a deep red or almost black, depending on the variety. Tart cherries turn a bright, vibrant red when ripe. However, color alone can be misleading. Some varieties naturally have darker skin than others, and environmental factors can influence color development.
Taste Test: The Ultimate Judge
The taste test is the most reliable way to determine ripeness. A ripe cherry should be sweet (for sweet cherries) or tart (for tart cherries), with a juicy and flavorful pulp. Avoid picking cherries that taste sour or have a starchy texture. Taste-testing a few cherries from different parts of the tree is recommended to ensure that the entire crop is ready.
Firmness: The Feel of Ripeness
A ripe cherry should be firm to the touch but not rock hard. Gently squeeze the cherry between your fingers. If it yields slightly, it’s likely ripe. Overripe cherries will be soft and mushy.
Stem Condition: A Subtle Sign
The stem of a ripe cherry should be easily detached from the tree. If you have to tug hard to remove the cherry, it’s probably not quite ripe. The stem itself should also be green and pliable, rather than brown and brittle.
Sugar Content: A Scientific Approach
For commercial growers, measuring the sugar content of cherries using a refractometer is a common practice. A refractometer measures the refractive index of the juice, which is directly related to the sugar content. While this method is not practical for home gardeners, it provides the most objective assessment of ripeness.
Harvesting Cherries: Best Practices for a Bountiful Crop
Once you’ve determined that your cherries are ripe, it’s time to harvest them. Proper harvesting techniques will help ensure that you get the most from your crop and minimize damage to the trees.
Timing is Key: The Ideal Time of Day
The best time to harvest cherries is in the morning, after the dew has dried but before the heat of the day sets in. Cherries picked during cooler temperatures will be firmer and less susceptible to bruising. Avoid harvesting cherries on rainy days, as they will be more prone to cracking.
Gentle Handling: Preventing Bruising
Cherries are delicate fruits, so handle them with care. Gently twist or clip the cherries from the tree, leaving the stem attached. Avoid pulling or yanking, as this can damage the tree and cause bruising. Place the harvested cherries in shallow containers to prevent crushing.
Selective Harvesting: Picking Only the Ripe Ones
Harvest only the cherries that are fully ripe. Leave the unripe cherries on the tree to ripen further. This may require multiple harvests over a period of several days or weeks.
Proper Storage: Extending the Freshness
Cherries are best eaten fresh, but they can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. To maximize their shelf life, store them unwashed in a shallow container lined with paper towels. Wash the cherries just before eating.
Protecting Your Crop: Bird and Pest Control
Birds and other pests can quickly decimate a cherry crop. Netting the trees is the most effective way to protect your harvest. Other methods include using bird scare devices or applying organic pest control measures.
Conclusion: Enjoying the Fruits (and Cherries) of Your Labor
Harvesting cherries is a rewarding experience. By understanding the factors that influence ripening time and carefully assessing ripeness, you can ensure that you’re picking your cherries at their peak of flavor and quality. Remember to handle the cherries gently during harvest and store them properly to maximize their freshness. With a little knowledge and effort, you can enjoy a bountiful crop of delicious cherries every summer. Understanding the nuances of “what month do you harvest cherries” goes beyond a simple calendar date and involves observing your trees, understanding your climate, and savoring the process.
What is the general harvest season for cherries?
The general harvest season for cherries typically spans from late spring to mid-summer, primarily between May and August. However, the precise timing can vary significantly based on several factors, including the cherry variety (sweet vs. tart), the geographical location and climate, and the specific weather conditions during the growing season. Warmer regions generally experience earlier harvests, while cooler climates see cherries ripening later in the summer months.
Understanding these influences is crucial for planning a successful cherry picking expedition. For example, sweet cherries are often ready for picking earlier than tart cherries. Similarly, cherries grown in states like California might ripen weeks before those grown in more northern states like Washington or Michigan. Always check with local orchards for specific harvest dates in your area for the most accurate information.
How does the type of cherry (sweet vs. tart) affect the harvest month?
Sweet cherries, such as Bing, Rainier, and Lambert varieties, generally ripen earlier in the season compared to tart or sour cherries. You can often find sweet cherries ready for harvest from late May to July, depending on the region. Their peak season is usually concentrated within these months, offering a shorter window for picking these delicious fruits.
Tart cherries, including varieties like Montmorency, are typically harvested later in the summer, usually from late June through August. Because tart cherries are more often used in baking and processing, growers might also consider how far along the crop is for optimum use. This difference in ripening time allows cherry lovers to enjoy the fruits of the season over an extended period, starting with the sweet varieties and transitioning to the tangy tart cherries.
What climate factors influence when cherries are ready to harvest?
Climate plays a pivotal role in determining the cherry harvest month. Mild winters followed by warm, sunny springs promote early blossoming and fruit development, potentially leading to an earlier harvest. Conversely, harsh winters or cool, wet springs can delay the ripening process, pushing the harvest season back by several weeks.
Furthermore, the amount of sunlight the trees receive is crucial. Sufficient sunlight contributes to the sugar content and overall quality of the cherries, influencing when they reach optimal ripeness. Factors like elevation, proximity to large bodies of water, and microclimates within an orchard can also create variations in harvest timing even within the same region.
How can I tell when cherries are ripe and ready to be picked?
Visual inspection is the primary method for determining cherry ripeness. Ripe sweet cherries will have a deep, rich color that is characteristic of their variety, whether it’s a deep red, almost black, or a vibrant yellow with a red blush. The cherries should also appear plump and shiny, indicating they are full of juice.
Beyond appearance, a gentle tug test can help confirm ripeness. If the cherry comes easily off the stem with a slight pull, it is likely ready to be picked. Avoid forcing the cherry, as this can damage the tree and surrounding fruit. Tasting a sample cherry is also a reliable method. A ripe cherry will have a sweet, juicy flavor, while an unripe cherry will be tart and hard.
Are there specific regions known for earlier or later cherry harvests?
Yes, certain regions are known for earlier cherry harvests due to their warmer climates. California, for instance, often sees its cherry season begin in late April or early May, making it one of the first states to offer fresh cherries to the market. Other states in the Pacific Northwest, like Washington and Oregon, generally follow, with their cherry harvests typically commencing in June.
On the other hand, regions with cooler climates, such as Michigan and some parts of New York, tend to have later cherry harvests. Their cherry seasons often begin in late June or early July and can extend into August. This variation in harvest times across different regions ensures a continuous supply of fresh cherries throughout the late spring and summer months.
How do commercial cherry orchards determine the optimal harvest time?
Commercial cherry orchards rely on a combination of factors to determine the optimal harvest time, including accumulated heat units (growing degree days), fruit color development, fruit firmness, and sugar content (measured as soluble solids). They use weather data to track heat accumulation, which helps predict when the cherries will reach maturity. Regular sampling of the fruit allows growers to monitor color changes and firmness.
Moreover, growers use refractometers to measure the sugar content of the cherries. A certain sugar level is necessary to be considered ripe. By integrating these factors, orchard managers can precisely time their harvest, ensuring the cherries are picked at their peak flavor and quality for the market. This also allows them to maximize yield and minimize losses due to overripe or damaged fruit.
What tools or equipment are helpful for cherry picking?
While you can certainly pick cherries with just your hands, certain tools and equipment can make the process more efficient and comfortable. A small ladder or step stool is useful for reaching higher branches, ensuring you don’t miss any ripe cherries. Lightweight picking buckets or baskets with shoulder straps can free up your hands for easier harvesting.
Beyond these, consider wearing appropriate clothing to protect yourself from the sun and insects. Long sleeves, a hat, and sunscreen are recommended, as is insect repellent. A cherry pitter can be handy for processing cherries quickly after picking, but it’s not essential for the harvesting process itself. Remember to treat the cherry trees gently to ensure future harvests.