Where Cherries Are From

With their burst of flavor and vibrant hues, Cherries have a rich history that spans continents and centuries. From their ancient origins to their introduction in the United States and modern-day cultivation practices, cherries continue to captivate taste buds and inspire culinary creations.

Let’s explore the fascinating journey of cherries, from where they originated to their place in American agriculture.

Ancient Roots and How it Arrived in the US

Cherries have been cultivated for thousands of years, with their origins traced back to regions near the Black and Caspian Seas in modern-day Turkey, Iran, and Greece. Ancient civilizations, including the Greeks and Romans, revered cherries for their delicious taste and purported medicinal properties. Cherries even found their way into myth and legend, with Greek mythology associating them with the fertility goddess Hera.

European Spread

As trade routes expanded and civilizations flourished, cherries traveled across Europe. The Romans significantly spread cherry cultivation throughout their empire, introducing the fruit to regions such as Britain, France, and Germany. By the medieval period, cherries had become a staple in European orchards, cultivated in monastery gardens and royal estates.

Introduction to the United States

Cherries arrived in North America with European colonists in the 17th century. French settlers brought cherries to the Great Lakes region, while English colonists introduced them to the eastern coast. However, it was not until the late 18th and early 19th centuries that cherry cultivation began earnestly in the United States.

The pivotal moment in cherry cultivation in the United States came with the arrival of the sweet variety, the Bing cherry. In the 19th century, a horticulturist named Seth Lewelling planted the first Bing cherry tree in Oregon. This variety thrived in the Pacific Northwest’s climate and soil, leading to the establishment of cherry orchards in Oregon, Washington, and California.

Modern-Day Cultivation

Today, the United States is one of the world’s leading producers of cherries, with most commercial cultivation concentrated in the Pacific Northwest. Washington state, in particular, accounts for the country’s largest share of cherry production, followed by Oregon and California.

Modern cherry cultivation in the United States utilizes advanced agricultural techniques and technology to ensure optimal yields and fruit quality. Cherries are typically grown in orchards with carefully managed irrigation systems and pest control measures. Varieties such as Bing, Rainier, and Lambert are among the most popular cultivated in the region.

Cherry harvest season in the United States typically occurs from late spring to early summer, with peak production in June and July. During this time, orchards come alive with activity as workers hand-pick ripe cherries from the trees. The harvested fruit is sorted, packed, and shipped to markets and consumers nationwide.