Sweet Cherries
Sweet Cherries
Key Requirements
| Land | Low to Medium |
| Labor | High |
| Capital | High |
Take the HortBizQuiz to see how much Land, Labor, and Capital you have for your operation.
Markets
- Direct to Consumer
- Farmer's Market
- On-Farm Stands
Pests & Disease
A number of diseases, insects, animal pests and environmental conditions can cause heavy sweet cherry losses in Kentucky. Birds feeding in ripening fruit will cause substantial yield reductions if trees are not netted.
$6300-9800
Cost per Acre
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
$(2300)-6200
Returns per Acre
Costs and returns are presented as estimates. They will vary based on your farm and markets.
Challenges
- Cherries are susceptible to cracking which reduces marketability and increases susceptibility to fruit rot.
- Most sweet cherry cultivars are self-incompatible and require another cultivar to serve as a source of pollen.
- Labor needs per acre are significant.
Opportunities
- Strong demand for fresh fruit at farmers markets.
- Can be used in value-added products such as jams and jellies.