According to the BOM Climate Outlook, La Niña is firmly established in the tropical Pacific which increases the chance of above average rainfall across much of northern and eastern Australia during summer.
The BOM forecast, along with the recent damaging rains in many cherry growing regions have shifted the focus to varieties that can produce good quality cherries under these conditions.
There are many varieties still to be harvested in December, and for the later producing areas, from January through to the start of February.
Lapins and Simone traditionally are fairly resistant to rain cracking compared to a variety such as Bing.
These varieties are likely to hit the market between now and the New Year depending on the growing region, and for late districts and areas of higher elevation, the timing may vary by three weeks or more.
Cherry displays in supermarkets
There is a trend by the supermarkets to move away from open cherry displays and self-serve, towards the use of plastic bags and punnets.
This can be attributed to cherry suppliers and the supermarkets working together on Covid-19 safe protocols, and on efforts to minimise waste.
Fruit bud initiation
Fruit bud initiation in cherries is now taking place (see photos).
Bud formation can be seen in various clusters and buds throughout the tree.
Some varieties (especially if they have been over-cropped for a couple of consecutive years) may produce fewer buds—it’s Nature’s way of giving the tree a rest.
Prune excess shoot growth
Good rains have most likely increased shoot growth and leaf area on the trees.
Take note of any excessive growth and return post-harvest to check this. Then decide what needs to be pruned out, for example long internal shoots, or growth that causes excessive shading, or low hanging shoots that are close to the ground.
Stay focussed
Growers, focus on the things of greatest importance because this is an extremely busy time with many issues arising that are outside your control.
Good luck.
See this article in Tree Fruit Dec 2021
