Larger fruit and longer season An excellent forecast has been predicted for US cherry crops by promotions director for North West Cherries George Smith, who represent the four states that dominate the cherry trade. Cherries accounted for around 20% of US stone fruit exports last year. In value terms this rose to nearly half of the sales valued at £222m. Peaches and nectarines accounted for 45% of the 207,000t shipped to international markets, followed by plums and prunes at 30%. Apricots added a further 5%. According to Smith, crop estimates indicate a total of 80,000 tonnes of cherries ­ which has increased by a third on last year's amount. However, the prices are expected to remain the same because of impulse buy appeal generated by the popular fruit. Overall, fruit is expected to be a size and a half larger than last year but volumes will vary from state to state. Picking has already begun in California where production has been steadily increased by over 4,000 acres in the past five years to 18,500 acres. Trade sources are expecting around four to five million cartons although this will be lighter than last year's record. Arrival from Washington State will be earlier than usual. However, the recognised height of this cherry season will see exports continuing to rise. Sales are expected to peak in early July, and will be set to continue past its traditional 12 weeks due to this year's emphasis on extending the market. Longevity has been achieved by the use of earlier Bing hybrids and new varieties such as Sweetheart and Lapin which mature 14 days later. Modified atmosphere packaging is also a factor. Meanwhile, the first European cherries from Spain are already on the shelves, making around £4.50 ­ £5.50 per 2kg on the markets. {{FRESH PRODUCE }}

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