Cherries
Firstly – temperature. Cherries have their own temperature preferences, and Young offers just the right conditions. To ensure proper fruit development for most varieties, cherries require approximately 1,400 chill hours at a temperature of 7 degrees Celsius or lower. This chilling period is crucial for the fruit to set correctly and thrive.
However, the magic lies in the soil – specifically, the rich red granite soils of Young and its surrounding district. These ancient soils boast a history dating back millions of years. Not only are they fertile, providing essential nutrients for cherry growth, but they also possess a unique attribute. These soils allow moisture to drain away swiftly, creating an environment where optimal growing conditions for cherries can be realised.
The distinctive weather patterns in the region contribute to the exceptional quality of Young’s cherries. The harvest season, spanning from November to December, experiences lower rainfall. This is a significant advantage, as the reduced rainfall during this period enhances the overall quality of the cherries.
A wide range of cherry varieties are available, extending the harvest season from early November to late December. These cherries come in a vibrant range of colors, spanning from the delicate white to the bold red and even the deep black. Cherries remain a truly seasonal fruit, maintaining a unique charm in an era of year-round produce. Additionally, cherries offer remarkable value in terms of their weight, surpassing even the appeal of chocolate.
So, as we explore the educational side of Young’s cherry-growing excellence, we uncover a delicate balance between temperature, soil richness, rainfall patterns, and the enticing variety of cherries. This balance is what contributes to the exquisite cherries that emerge from Young, a true testament to the remarkable synergy of nature.
Early Varieties
- Supreme // sweet
- Merchant // well balanced acid & sweet
- Vista // tart
Mid-Season Varieties
- Ron’s Seedling // dark red, firm and sweet
- Stella // sweet
- Van // sweet to tart big flavour
Late Season Varieties
- Bing, Sweetheart // sweet
- Sylvia, Lipins, Simone // sweet varieties
- Black Douglas // sweet, juicy, firm dark flesh
Pick Your Own & Orchards
Our local area offers a wonderful selection of orchards where you can sample and purchase fresh cherries, stonefruit and other produce.
Please refer to the lists below for details for both ‘pick-your-own’ orchards as well as orchards where you can buy cherries throughout the season.
Please contact the Young Visitor Information Centre for the latest update on the Cherries and Stonefruit Season and opening times.
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