The Canadian cherry growing regions have reported that full blossom has occurred. It all started in South Okanagan on April 24th before moving up to North Okanagan on May 1st, followed by Creston Valley on May 5th. According to Global Fruit, conditions for the bloom have been ideal, although the season is expected to start a little later this year.
"Based on the first round blossom estimates, we expect 700,000 of the 800,000 20lb equivalent cases to fall in August and we plan to continue shipping until mid-September," the company said in a release. "We are excited to be late and look forward to Labour Day Canadian Cherry promotions. Weather for pollination and cell division has been wonderful and the coming week looks terrific as well. Tentative pick dates are predicted to begin June 23rd and finish September 1st."
The company grows and markets cherries in both the Okanagan and Creston Valley regions in British Columbia, adding they are proud to focus on smaller scale orchards. "Our orchards are small, intimate affairs ranging in size from 4 to over 250 acres," said Global Fruit's Andre Bailey. "We live amongst our trees and work hands-on in all aspects of the operation, and our grower’s quality shows in every box."
According to Global Fruit, Canadian cherries are prized for their characteristics, including what it says is high Brix as well as the lengthy season. "Canadian Cherries boast some of the highest Brix (sugar) content on the planet," Bailey shared. "Our warm days and cool nights extend our growing season and produce amazing size and firmness. Our water is pure, crystal clear and abundant. Most of our Cherry varieties were developed in Canada specifically for our climate."
For more information:
Andre Bailey
Global Fruit
Ph: +1 (250) 428-2320
[email protected]
www.globalfruit.org