AN unseasonably wet winter and dry spring has the region’s cherry farmers expecting a bumper season, with ripe cherries on the Christmas wish list.
Eldorado Orchards owner Paul Dahlenburg said the local crop was coming into season just in time for the festive period.
Having first planted cherries in the region 20 years ago, Mr Dahlenburg, who now runs the business with daughter Jessee, said he was pleased with how the orchard's six cherry varieties are in perfect condition with a big yield set to be harvested this season that will extend into early next year.
Mr Dahlenburg's crop, situated along Eldorado–Wangaratta Road near Londrigan, is one of a number of local orchards gearing up for Christmas with picking to commence in a couple of weeks.
Jessee, who manages the orchard, is highly optimistic for a great season.
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“A wet winter and mild spring have created optimal conditions for the cherry season this year,” she said.
"We are in a much better position this season compared to last year with a soggy winter and spring that put us two weeks behind.
“Recent rainfall will be a benefit to the cherries allowing final maturity which gives a lovely sized cherry with a rich texture.
“Rainfall governs the season and there is that risk each year that severe thunderstorms that produce hail are renowned to damage crops, however, we remain optimistic for a fantastic season.
“We are running on time compared to last year where we were two weeks behind and we are looking at a great season.
“Because of milder temperatures, ripeness comes along much quicker.
“Cherries are only a couple of weeks away from picking which means they'll arrive on time at the Christmas dinner table or just a summer treat.
“We have a new variety of cherry called Earlise which is an early variety that still produces a large sweet fruit.
“The other variety we have is called Merchant which is picked in early December."
Cherries at Christmas time is a unique Australian tradition as the Australian cherry season coincides with the holiday season, so cherries feature in Australian Christmas desserts and on many Christmas tables.
Cherries are not only delicious, they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds with powerful health effects.
The Australian cherry season lasts for 100 days in spring and summer.
In Victoria, most cherries are harvested between mid-November and the end of January.
Eldorado Orchards offers pick–your–own services for $10 a kilo on Saturdays and Sundays between 9am and 4pm, and will be open on Christmas Eve, while a roadside fridge offers cherries for $15 a kilo, cash only.
