Do you love fresh cherries? If so, youre in luck! Learn about the different types, when they are in season, tips on how to pit and store your cherries, and some great recipes that you can try! Whether youre looking for information on cherry harvest season or recipes with this delicious fruit, youve come to the right place!
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Cherry season is typically during the months of May to July. However, sweet cherries and sour cherries are harvested at different times. Read on to find out more about when specific types of cherries are in season, and great recipes to use those cherries in. Sweet cherries are typically harvested earlier in the season, while sour cherries are harvested a bit later.
These are the most popular type of cherries. They are large and have a sweet, sometimes slightly tart flavor. Sweet cherries are usually eaten fresh, but can also be used in pies, jams, and other desserts. Sweet cherry production is from different parts of the world, including Europe, North America, and Asia. The season for sweet cherries usually runs from late May to July.
Here are some varieties of sweet cherries that you may find at store shelves in your local grocery store or farmer’s markets.
These deep red cherries are a cultivar of sweet cherry from the Pacific Northwest (specifically, Milwaukie, Oregon). Bing cherries are the most popular type of sweet cherries, and have a high sugar content and are often used in pies and other desserts.
They are grown all along the West Coast of North America – from Oregon, Washington, and California to Wisconsin and British Columbia (in Canada). They are available in the stores from May to late August.
Cherry Season by US State
U.S. State
|
Cherry Season
|
New York
|
June, July
|
North Carolina
|
May, June, July
|
North Dakota
|
July, August
|
Ohio
|
June, July
|
How to Pit Cherries
You cant really talk this much about cherries without talking about how to pit them. As much as I love cherries, I dont love pitting them manually. I love using this cherry pitter than can pit multiple cherries at once (and also own this single cherry pitter).
However, if you dont have one of those handy, heres a quick and easy guide on how to pit cherries by hand.
Youll need:
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A bowl or plate
First, wash your cherries. You dont want any extra dirt or bacteria on them. Next, take your knife and cut the cherries in half. You can do this by cutting around the stem.
Once theyre cut in half, twist the two halves in opposite directions to separate them. If the pit doesnt come out easily, you can use the tip of your knife to help pry it out. Finally, put the pitted cherries in your bowl or plate and enjoy!
When Is Cherry Season by State?
If youre wondering when cherries are in season in your state, here is a table showing the state and peak cherry season. Just Ctrl + F to find yours!
Cherry Season | Cherry Season |
---|---|
Alabama | June, July |
Alaska | June, July |
Arizona | June |
Arkansas | June, July |
Northern California | April, May, June, July |
Southern California | April, May, June, July |
Colorado | June, July, August, September, October |
Connecticut | June, July |
Delaware | June, July |
North Florida | June, July |
South Florida | June, July |
Georgia | June |
Hawaii | June, July |
Idaho | July, August |
Illinois | May, June, July |
Indiana | June, July |
Iowa | June, July |
Kansas | May, June, July |
Kentucky | June, July |
Louisiana | June, July |
Maine | June, July |
Maryland | June, July |
Massachusetts | June |
Michigan | June, July, August |
Minnesota | June, July |
Mississippi | June, July |
Missouri | May, June, July |
Montana | July, August |
Nebraska | June, July |
Nevada | June |
New Hampshire | June, July |
New Jersey | June |
New Mexico | July |
New York | June, July |
North Carolina | May, June, July |
North Dakota | July, August |
Ohio | June, July |
Oklahoma | June, July |
Oregon | June, July |
Pennsylvania | June, July |
Rhode Island | June, July |
South Carolina | June, July |
South Dakota | June, July |
Tennessee | June, July |
Texas | June, July |
Utah | June, July, August |
Vermont | June, July |
Virginia | May, June, July, August |
Washington | June, July, August |
Washington DC | June, July |
West Virginia | June, July |
Wisconsin | June, July |
Wyoming | June, July |
Picking cherries is a seasonal activity that generally only lasts a few weeks. Cherries often dont last long after being picked – typically, 5-7 days if kept in the fridge, but this can be extended to around two weeks if they are stored in a cool place like a cellar.
Cherry picking season typically starts in the mid of April and lasts until July. However, the specific dates can vary depending on various factors such as weather conditions, location, and the types of cherries that you are growing.
When you start seeing cherry blossoms, its time to start thinking about cherry picking! The best cherry-picking season depends on the type of cherry that you have, but typically, it is best picked from the beginning of June until July.
More than 300 million pounds of cherries are grown in the United States each year. Cherries are widely cultivated in the Northwest and in Michigan. Other states with large commercial cherry production include California, Pennsylvania, New York, and Oregon.
How to pick cherries properly
FAQ
What month are cherries the sweetest?
What month is the month of cherries ripening?
What time of year are cherries picked?
When are cherries ready to pick?
First, it’s important to understand the different types of cherry varieties. Sweet cherries, like Bing, Rainier, and Royal Ann, are usually ready to harvest in late June and early July. Sour cherries, such as Montmorency and Morello, are typically ready to pick in late June and early July as well.
What is the best time to take cherry extract?
Cherry extract can be used to promote healthy sleep, so it is recommended to take it after eating and before going to sleep. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
When is the best time to pick cherry blossoms?
When you start seeing cherry blossoms, it’s time to start thinking about cherry picking! The best cherry-picking season depends on the type of cherry that you have, but typically, it is best picked from the beginning of June until July.
When is the best time to buy fresh cherry?
While summer is undoubtedly the best time for fresh-cherry lovers due to seasonal availability and great pricing opportunities – there may still be chances available later in the year too! If you’re craving some juicy reds or deep purples outside cherry harvest seasons (May-August), don’t fret!