Established 1979
This 137-acre center sits in the five-county northwestern region that produces almost half of the U.S. supply of tart cherries and is responsible for 83 percent of sweet cherry production in Michigan. Founded through the efforts of the northwestern Michigan area fruit industry, the center is the premier research site for integrated pest management, horticultural production and handling, value-added processing, marketing and farm financial management practices for sweet and tart cherries, wine grapes, apples, plums and hops. In addition to creating and expanding knowledge through leading-edge research on cherries and other fruits, the center disseminates state-of-the-art information to the Michigan fruit industry and the public.
News
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Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – October 11, 2023
Published on October 12, 2023
Growers are moving through apples as fast as they are able given the wet conditions over the past week. As most varieties are testing in the mature range, they are fair game for harvest. -
Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – October 4, 2023
Published on October 4, 2023
Growers are moving through harvest and Honeycrisp and Gala are the main priorities at this time. Fruit seems to be maturing quickly this season. -
Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – September 28, 2023
Published on September 28, 2023
Honeycrisp harvest is ongoing across the region and fruit is testing mature. Growers will move to Gala upon Honeycrisp harvest completion. -
Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – September 20, 2023
Published on September 20, 2023
Honeycrisp harvest has begun across northwest Michigan. There is variability in firmness and brix levels, likely due in part to excess rain in some regions and no rain in other areas. -
Northwest Michigan apple maturity report – September 13, 2023
Published on September 13, 2023
Honeycrisp starch removal ratings are showing fruit is more mature than anticipated for this time of the year. Overall, apples are maturing about seven days ahead of most years.