U.S. Tart Cherry Output Rises

WASHINGTON - Jun 21/07 - SNS -- U.S. tart cherry production is forecast at 294 million pounds, 11% above the 2006 production and 9% above production in 2005, according to the USDA.

Michigan, the largest producing State, expects a crop of 230 million pounds, up 21% from the 2006 crop and 11% above 2005. A severe freeze on April 7 - 8 destroyed the majority of the tart cherry flower buds in the southwest portion of the State, while there was less damage in west central Michigan. Conditions in the northwest were excellent during bloom and pollination, leading to high yield potential.

Washington expects to produce 18.0 million pounds of tart cherries in 2007, down 19% from 2006 but 9% higher than 2005. Cool spring weather and damaging frosts caused problems during bloom and pollination.

Utah production is forecast at 16.0 million pounds, 43% below both 2006 and 2005 production. The decrease in production is the result of poor fruit set, with approximately two-thirds of the flowers reportedly failing to set.

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