Top Cherry Producing States

Let’s be honest—summer just wouldn’t be the same without a big bowl of cherries. You know the ones: ruby-red, plump, and so sweet they practically beg you to spit the pits into the grass. Turns out, the United States grows a staggering amount of these little joys, and some states are total rock stars at it. Ready to meet the cherry champions? Let’s dive into the top cherry-producing states, and trust me, this story is a lot cooler than a pie—well, almost.

Washington: The Undisputed Heavyweight

If you love cherries, you owe a serious thank you to Washington. This state alone grows about 60% of all sweet cherries in the U.S.—that’s hundreds of millions of pounds every single year. The secret? Perfect volcanic soil and long, sunny summer days that make cherries explode with flavor. Next time you pop a Rainier or a Bing cherry, imagine it came from a tree in the Yakima Valley, soaking up that Pacific Northwest magic.

California: The Early Bird Special

Don’t let Washington grab all the spotlight, because California is the early riser of the cherry world. Their harvest starts in April, weeks before anyone else, which means they supply the first sweet cherries of the season. That’s a big deal if you’re craving that first perfect crunch after a long winter. Plus, California’s Central Valley produces millions of pounds of tart cherries for baking—so yes, your favorite cherry pie has a West Coast connection.

Oregon: The Underdog with Punch

Just south of Washington, Oregon quietly grows a lot of cherries, especially the darker, juicy varieties like Black Republican and Lambert. Oregon’s Willamette Valley is famous for its high-quality sweet cherries, and they also produce a surprising amount of maraschino cherries. Yes, those bright red garnishes on your sundae? Oregon likely made them. Not bad for a state that’s often overlooked next to its powerhouse neighbors.

Evolution of the sweet cherry tree from 2008 to 2023: University of

Michigan: The Tart Cherry King

Switch gears to the Midwest, and you’ll find Michigan absolutely dominating the tart cherry market. This state grows a whopping 75% of all tart cherries in the U.S., which are the kind you bake into pies, jams, and cobblers. Michigan’s snowy winters and cool springs create the perfect environment for those zesty, bright red beauties. So, if you’ve ever had a slice of Michigan cherry pie, you know why it’s a national treasure.

New York and Utah: The Surprise Players

Wait, there’s more! New York produces a solid amount of sweet and tart cherries, especially around Lake Ontario, where the climate is cherry-perfect. And Utah? The Beehive State is a hidden gem, growing a big crop of Montmorency tart cherries near the Great Salt Lake. Don’t underestimate them—Utah’s cherry harvest can be huge, and it often flies under the radar.

Cherries under siege: Washington growers between climate change and

So, why does this matter to you? Because cherries make life more fun. They’re the fruit you can eat by the handful, bake into a pie with friends, or toss into a cocktail for a festive pop. Knowing where your fruit comes from adds a whole new layer of joy—it’s like getting to know the backstory of your favorite band.

Here’s the uplifting note: Cherries don’t last forever, but their season is a delicious reminder to savor the moment. Next time you see a cherry on your plate, imagine the Washington sun, the Michigan snow, and the California breeze that helped it get there. Now go ahead—eat another one. You’ve earned it. And hey, why not look up which cherry festival is near you? Summer’s calling, and it’s holding a bowl of perfectly ripe fruit.