012 Cherries in New York State: Small Fruit, Big Tradition
Bright, colorful, and bursting with flavor, cherries have become one of New York State's most treasured summer fruits.
New York State Cherries
Whether enjoyed fresh from the tree, baked into homemade pies, or transformed into jams and preserves, cherries have delighted generations of New Yorkers and visitors alike.
From orchards overlooking Lake Ontario to family farms throughout western New York and the Finger Lakes, cherry season marks the arrival of another beautiful New York summer.
A Fruit with Deep Roots
Cherry growing has been part of New York agriculture for well over a century. Farmers discovered that regions influenced by the Great Lakes provided ideal conditions for producing both sweet and tart cherries.
Today, family orchards continue that tradition, combining modern growing practices with generations of knowledge passed from one generation to the next.
Why Cherries Thrive in New York
New York's unique geography creates excellent growing conditions for cherry trees.
- ? Deep, fertile soils
- ? Lake Ontario's moderating influence
- ☀️ Warm summer days
- ? Cool nights that enhance flavor
- ? Beautiful spring blossoms that signal the arrival of warmer weather
These conditions help produce cherries known for their vibrant color, excellent texture, and outstanding flavor.
New York by the Numbers
- ? New York grows both sweet and tart cherries.
- ? Commercial orchards can be found throughout several regions of the state.
- ? Tart cherries are widely used in pies, preserves, and juices.
- ? Fresh sweet cherries are enjoyed throughout the summer harvest season.
More Than Just Pie
While cherry pie remains a favorite tradition, New York cherries appear in many delicious forms.
- ? Homemade pies
- ? Ice cream toppings
- ? Jams and preserves
- ? Juices
- ? Baked desserts
- ? Fresh summer snacks
Cherry Season in New York
One of the joys of summer is stopping at a roadside farm stand or orchard and finding baskets filled with freshly harvested cherries. Many farms also offer pick-your-own opportunities, allowing visitors to experience the harvest firsthand while enjoying beautiful countryside views.
Voices of New York
"Cherry season always seemed to arrive just when summer was hitting its stride. A basket of fresh cherries rarely made it all the way home without someone sneaking a handful along the way."
Spring brings another unforgettable sight as thousands of cherry trees burst into bloom, covering orchards with delicate white blossoms that signal another growing season has begun.
Experience New York's Cherry Country
Whether you're exploring orchards along Lake Ontario, discovering farm markets in western New York, or visiting the Finger Lakes during harvest season, cherries provide another delicious reason to experience New York's agricultural heritage.
Fresh fruit, beautiful orchards, and generations of family farming continue to make cherries an important part of New York's story.