They’re red, they’re tasty, and they’re one of Michigan’s most prized specialty crops! While fresh sweet Michigan cherries are only in season from late June to August, Montmorency tart cherries are available throughout the year in dried, frozen, canned, or as juices and concentrates.
Click the button to download our fact sheet and find out when you can find the freshest locally grown products!
Michigan Cherry Facts
- Michigan produces both tart (perfect for baked goods, entrees, snacks, smoothies, salads, and other recipes) and sweet (for fresh eating) cherries
- Michigan grows 70% of the United States’ supply of tart cherries, ranking first in production
- Michigan is the leading producer in the world for Montmorency tart cherries, known as “America’s Superfruit”
- Michigan produced 201 million pounds of tart cherries in 2018, valued at $280.1 million
- Traverse City, Michigan is home to the annual National Cherry Festival and is the Cherry Capital of the World
- Want to learn more about cherries? Download our fact sheet here
Nutrition
- Montmorency tart cherries grown in the U.S. have among the highest levels of disease-fighting antioxidants compared to other fruits.
- A growing number of elite athletes and everyday exercisers are incorporating Montmorency tart cherries in their training routines, as studies have shown that Montmorency tart cherry juice may help reduce strength loss and aid recovery after extensive exercise.
- Research indicates that Montmorency tart cherry juice may help improve the quality and duration of sleep.
- Cherries contain beta carotene, vitamin C, potassium, magnesium, iron and fiber.