Michigan’s Six-Week Wonder

Michigan sweet cherry harvest runs about six weeks, kicking off around the Fourth of July and wrapping up by mid-August. July is the only guaranteed time to enjoy fresh Michigan-grown sweet cherries. Exact timing varies year to year and by region, with southwest Michigan typically harvesting first and the Leelanau Peninsula finishing last.

Our cherries come from 10 family-owned orchards spanning three Michigan growing regions: southwest Michigan, the Fruit Ridge north of Grand Rapids, and the Leelanau Peninsula in northwest Michigan. The mix of growing areas extends our harvest window and gives retailers consistent supply throughout July.

Michigan’s lake-moderated climate, cooler nights, and shorter season produce cherries with a distinct firm bite and balanced sweet-tangy flavor. Buying Michigan also reduces cross-country trucking, which is better for the environment and keeps fruit fresher because it spends less time in transit.

Three reasons: row covers protect spring blossoms from late frosts, bird netting deters birds during ripening, and rain covers prevent fruit splitting from heavy summer rains right at harvest. These tools are why Michigan can grow cherries reliably despite weather challenges other regions don’t face.

Stems intact seal in moisture and extend shelf life by up to a week. Hand-picking also prevents the bruising that mechanical harvesters cause, which is critical because cherry skin is delicate and any damage shortens shelf life dramatically.

Stored properly in the coldest part of your refrigerator with stems intact, fresh cherries hold for one to two weeks. Don’t wash them until you’re ready to eat. Keep them in the original container or a perforated bag to prevent moisture buildup.

Yes. Pit them, spread on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag. Frozen cherries hold their flavor and texture for up to 12 months and work great in smoothies, baked goods, sauces, and homemade ice cream.

Sweet cherries pack 16% of your daily Vitamin C and 12% of your daily fiber per cup, plus antioxidants, anti-inflammatory compounds, potassium, magnesium, melatonin, and calcium. They’re naturally fat-free and cholesterol-free.

Riveridge offers consumer packs in 1 lb clamshells, 2 lb pouches and clamshells, and 2.25 lb pouches. Bulk programs are available in 8 lb and 20 lb formats, with custom options for larger volume buyers. Visit our Retailer Hub for complete spec sheets and PLU information.

Michigan growers select cherry strains specifically for the firm bite, deep red color, and balanced sweet-tangy flavor that retailers and consumers want. Specific variety selection varies by orchard and harvest week, but every Riveridge cherry meets the same flavor and quality standard before it ships.

Riveridge sweet cherries are available at major retailers across the Midwest during July. Use our cherry locator to find Michigan cherries near you during the season. Outside of July, look for frozen Michigan cherries or check back next summer.

Demand for Michigan-grown cherries is outpacing supply. Cherry acreage in Michigan has grown at a double-digit pace in recent years and is expected to continue. Local production reduces the environmental cost of trucking fruit from the western United States and keeps prices more stable for consumers.