In the months leading up to British Columbia's cherry season, growers and shippers were optimistic about this year's crop. For the first time in more than five years, they were looking at a full crop. With just a few weeks of harvest left, how did the initial forecast play out? "It has been a very good season and we're looking at the largest crop in the history of B.C. cherries," says Julie McLachlan with Jealous Fruits.
High elevation orchards
The company's harvest will continue for another two and a half weeks, and the current marketing window is very good. When harvest started back in July, Washington state was at the peak of its season, making for a more challenging month with reduced prices. However, the large majority of Washington's cherry growers have finalized harvest, which has resulted in a stronger market for B.C. growers. Jealous Fruits has finished harvest on its lower elevation valley blocks and has fully transitioned to the high-elevation blocks. "All fruit that is currently being harvested is grown at an elevation between 1,800 and 2,700 ft. and the quality is excellent," McLachlan shared. Staccato, the company's largest variety, will be harvested until September 5th or 6th.
Over the course of late July and early August, the company's orchards experienced a few rain shower events requiring action. With rain being a fact of life in cherry production, the company was well prepared, with 10 helicopters on standby, and a full fleet of tractor operated blowers to minimize losses. "We also are fortunate to have great packing equipment, which makes it easier to achieve clean packs following weather events," McLachlan pointed out.
© Jealous Fruits
Strong global demand
As a result of reduced supply, the market is currently very active. Demand from the domestic market is good and Jealous Fruits is witnessing particularly strong demand from the U.S. In addition, Vietnam, Thailand, Korea, the E.U., and the U.K. have been really strong this season. Demand from China on the other hand has been marginally softer this year. "We're not sure if this may be in part caused by the challenges China experienced during Chile's last season, but in general shipped volumes are reduced compared to previous seasons." However, Jealous Fruits continues to enjoy strong support from its long-time Chinese customers and is appreciative of that, even in these challenging circumstances. "No two cherry seasons are ever completely alike, and this is proving to be the case in 2025. Overall, the season for Jealous Fruits is shaping up to be one for the record books, which is something we are very grateful for," McLachlan said.
© Jealous Fruits
For more information:
Julie McLachlan
Jealous Fruits
Tel: +1 (250) 766-0738 ext. 204/ cell +1 250 801 2701
[email protected]
www.jealousfruits.com