Juicy, sweet cherries—one of the last truly seasonal produce items. Eastern Washington State provides the perfect climate for growing the notoriously finicky stonefruit as one of the few regions on the globe with the necessary conditions for commercial production. On the eve of summer harvest, learn how Rainier Fruit Company harnesses nature and technology to grow firm, delicious cherries in this special corner of the world.
Washington’s climate is of two extremes. Divided in two by an alpine mountain range, the eastern agricultural side of the state receives barely a fifth of the precipitation that falls on the drizzly, coastal western side, which naturally reduces pest and disease pressure. Warm, sunny days perfectly ripen fruit before the fall chill lulls the trees into their winter slumber. Combined, these conditions create Cherry Heaven on Earth.
As produce buyers know painfully well, Washington’s climate is a double-edged sword—cold snaps and heat waves keep cherry growers on their toes all year long. Rainier Fruit leans on decades of research and investment in weather event mitigation, including piped propane heaters and in-orchard hydrocoolers, to keep its cherries plentiful and just-picked-crunchy long after harvest.
Though eastern Washington’s general climate is ideal for growing sweet cherries, not all locations are equal. Certain locales are better suited than others due to soil quality, surroundings, and microclimates. Rainier Fruit has secured acreage among the best growing spots in the state, planted in geographically diverse areas catered to each variety’s unique growing habits. It takes careful cooperation with Mother Nature to grow Washington cherries, but it’s well worth the effort for this tasty summer treat.
