This year could see the largest cherry crop in national history.
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Previously, the record was set at 15,000 tonnes nationwide but preliminary estimates pit returns at a 20 per cent increase of 18,000.
When yielding begins on November 20, it will be Kristy and Mark Barton’s second cherry season following the acquisition of the Grovelands property late last year.
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But the fluctuating spring weather may still cause issue.
“Rain now is fine, but heavy falls in December when their ripening might split them apart,” said Mrs Barton.
A continuation of the weekend’s sudden heat may also be problematic.
“We did start to panic a bit, they don’t do too well when the temperature gets up over about 32 degrees,” said Mrs Barton.
“It dehydrates them and makes them ripen too quickly and then we have to do with the birds eating them too.”
The Bartons are still expecting returns in line with the rest of the nation.
“We’ve only got a thousand trees so we’re a bit boutique, especially since we sell mostly at the farmgate.”
Alongside the crowd favourite cherry pies, the Bartons will be added additional services to their stable.
“We’ll be doing a local produce Christmas hamper with cherry products, olive oil, and honey from our hives of pollination bees,” she said.