Cherry Picking: It's a Cherry-Picking Affair!
So, you want to know when to get your hands on some juicy, sweet California cherries? Well, buckle up, cherry lover, because we're about to dive into the world of cherry picking.
Cherry Picking Season: A Brief Overview
California, the golden state, is also the cherry-picking capital of the world (or at least, it feels like it). The cherry season is a fleeting affair, a blink of an eye in the grand scheme of things. Typically, it kicks off around mid-May and wraps up by June. But remember, nature's got its own plans, so don't be surprised if the exact dates fluctuate a bit.
Why is Cherry Season So Short?
You might be wondering why we can't enjoy these ruby delights all year round. Well, cherries are delicate creatures. They need specific weather conditions to ripen to perfection. Too hot, too cold, too wet, too dry – any of these can mess things up. So, we're left with this tantalizingly short window of opportunity to indulge.
Cherry Picking: It's More Than Just Picking Cherries
Cherry picking isn't just about filling your basket with delicious fruit. It's an experience! Imagine yourself surrounded by cherry trees, their branches laden with tempting red orbs. The sun is shining, there's a gentle breeze, and you're happily plucking cherries straight from the tree. It's like therapy, but with cherries.
How to Make the Most of Cherry Season
- Plan Ahead: Check with local farms and orchards about their picking dates and times.
- Dress Appropriately: Comfortable clothes and a hat are essential. Don't forget sunscreen!
- Bring Supplies: A basket or bucket, and maybe even a picnic blanket for a post-picking snack.
- Taste as You Go: One of the perks of picking your own cherries is the ability to sample them straight from the tree.
- Don't Be Greedy: Remember, there are other cherry lovers out there, so leave some for everyone.
How To... Cherry Picking FAQs
- How to find a cherry orchard? Look online for local farms or ask at your farmer's market.
- How to pick the perfect cherry? Choose cherries that are firm, bright in color, and have a sweet scent.
- How to store fresh cherries? Store them in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to a week.
- How to freeze cherries? Pit the cherries, place them on a baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Transfer to freezer bags.
- How to use up a lot of cherries? Make cherry pies, jams, preserves, or simply enjoy them fresh!
So, mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready for a cherry-licious adventure!
