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.

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.

Enviro-Weather Report

 

News

  • Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 17, 2025

    Published on June 17, 2025
    Apple size increased by 8 mm since last week, and some growers are still thinning apples. Growers are estimating tart and sweet cherry crops following cold damage in late April.

  • Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 10, 2025

    Published on June 10, 2025
    Sweet cherries are sizing, and there are plum curculio stings on the fruitlets. First cherry leaf spot lesions have been observed in unsprayed blocks. There are reports of isolated hail on June 10.

  • Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 4, 2025

    Published on June 4, 2025
    Sweet cherries are at 7 millimeters. Tart cherries are coming out of the shuck. Apples are at various stages of bloom and sizing fast. Apple growers will be making thinning decisions and preparing for rain this week to protect against disease.

  • Michigan grape scouting report – June 4, 2025

    Published on June 4, 2025
    Check out the latest Michigan Grape Scouting Report for timely updates on weather, vine growth, disease management, and pest activity. Stay informed and make proactive decisions to support vineyard health and productivity.

  • Northwest Michigan fruit update – May 27, 2025

    Published on May 28, 2025
    With the cooler temperatures, many apples are still in bloom in the north. Growers are balancing disease control management with the cool weather.