In Bavaria, the cherry harvest this season is projected to fall short, with an estimated yield of 1.93 million kilos, marking a 31% decrease from the previous year. The shortfall is attributed to adverse weather conditions, including spring frost, followed by heavy rain and hail, leading to widespread damage and, in some instances, total crop loss.
Cherry production is notably susceptible to weather variations, with past yields fluctuating significantly. For instance, a peak harvest of over 4 million kilograms was recorded in 2018, whereas only 1.87 million kilograms were collected two years thereafter. The average harvest over the last six years stands at 3.06 million kilograms, positioning this year's forecasted yield 37% below average. Franconian Switzerland, celebrated for its extensive cherry orchards, is among the hardest-hit regions. This area, nestled within the Bayreuth-Nuremberg-Forchheim triangle, represents one of Europe's largest continuous cherry cultivation zones. The majority of the harvest is typically distributed through cooperatives, although direct sales at local markets and farm stands also play a crucial role. Unterfranken is another key cultivation area facing significant impacts from this year's diminished harvest.
Source: aussiedlerbote.de