When people think of Michigan, they often think of cherries and with good reason. No area of the world produces more red tart cherries. Every year in early July, people from around the country flock to beautiful Traverse City (the "Cherry Capitol of the World") to celebrate this favorite fruit at the Traverse City National Cherry Festival. Tart cherries (below) are used for pies and other "canning" purposes. They require sweetening prior to use.
In 1997, Michigan produced an estimated 225 million pounds of red tart cherries! That is 75% of the national crop. Most of the cherries were processed into pie fillings, jams, juice and other products.
Sweet cherries are also grown in Michigan. In 1997, 54 million pounds of sweet cherries were produced, with most going into processed products though fresh sweet cherries are treats to be savored during harvest season. Michigan produces about 20% of the national sweet cherry crop.
Source: Photograph by Randy Schaetzl, Professor of Geography - Michigan State University
Source: Unknown
Few people deny that Michigan's cherry crop is under threat from climate change. Below is an article that ran in the Lansing State Journal on Feb 3, 2022.
This material has been compiled for educational use only, and may not be reproduced without permission. One copy may be printed for personal use. Please contact Randall Schaetzl (soils@msu.edu) for more information or permissions.