Bing (sweet red), Rainier (sweet yellow/orange), Burlat and Brooks cherries are showing up at local farmers markets in California.
The Pacific Coast Farmers’ Market Association reports that a dozen different cherry varieties are being grown by local farmers and brought to the markets fresh from their orchards.
The peak California cherry season begins with Burlats in mid- to late April, followed by the Brooks in early May, Bings for most of May and Rainiers shortly thereafter. Weather, of course, can alter actual harvest times.
Burlats are a large, sweet, dark red, flavorful cherry. Brooks are large dark red cherries that grow well in hotter temperatures and have a very sweet, rich cherry flavor. Bings are also dark red cherries with superb flavor and firm, juicy flesh, the most commonly-grown sweet cherry. Rainiers are large, yellow cherries with a red blush and light yellow flesh. They have high sugar levels.
Cherries
Harvest Calendars
Farm Produce
