The forecast of British Columbia cherries this season will be challenging after two freezes in the first half of this year. Although the initial frost of January impacted a few trees, some were protected until the second frost struck in April. “There’s little fruit-it appears there’s a 10-15% production just within the Okanagan Valley,” says Gagan Grewal, of HG Produce in Abbotsford, B.C.

^{Grewal claims it’s looking like there’s around 10-15% cherry production throughout the Okanagan Valley this season.}

Regarding the exact timing of the season, any production that is left in B.C. is likely to begin on the same date. “Washington is likely to get a consistent beginning this year, and typically the moment that Washington gets a consistent start and the Okanagan is next,” Grewal explains. Grewal noting that the the production of Washington appears to be good given an expected supply of food and more sizes are expected to be available this year. The harvest could begin in the middle of the month of June. On the other hand, towards the northern border due to the poor production within B.C., it’s reported that some farmers have decided it’s not worth picking leaves from the trees for this year.

The balance between demand and price

For the demand for goods, it’s difficult. The lack of volumes in the Okanagan has resulted in a shortage of availability throughout the season so demand will remain strong. But, this is expected increase prices, and could cause a change in the market. “It’s somewhat of a waiting game to observe how people react to the product to pricing and what they will do,” says Grewal. “Last year’s record was set in the consumption of cherries. So there’s been a lot of potential growth in this market and people who want to buy them.”

Gagan Grewal (right) along with her his younger brother Mantaj Grewal, and her Grandma.

There have been some difficult years for B.C. cherries, which has left the industry with a need for more support. “We need more initiatives and funding through the state,” the expert says. “We require more grant money in order to help people cultivate cherries.” According to him, due to the recent seasons, farmers in the Okanagan are stepping away from stone fruit, including cherries, and shifting to products like wine grapes. “Otherwise there’ll be less stone fruit remaining within the Okanagan Valley.” The expert also says that the another stone fruit that is located in the area could face similar challenges as cherries this year.

Even though it’s late, there’s a lot of optimism regarding the 2024 provincial apple harvest. “The Okanagan and Washington have done well producing better quality apples in these past couple of years. They’ve been working hard with new sprays, and other things as well as improving the quality of the apples,” says Grewal. “The yields have steadily increased each year, so we’re looking forward to an excellent year.”

For additional information, click here:

Gagan Grewal

Hg Produce

Tel: +1 (604) 832-0945

gagan@hgproduceltd.com

https://hgproduceltd.com/