Northwest Michigan Horticulture Research Center

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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 25, 2024

Published on June 25, 2024
Weather conditions in northwest Michigan are ideal for many pests this season and keeping trees protected is a challenge with the frequent rain events.
Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 18, 2024

Published on June 18, 2024
Hot and wet weather are in the forecast. Growers are gearing up to cover ripening fruit to control insects and fungal diseases. Spotted wing drosophila has been caught in cherry and strawberry blocks.
Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 11, 2024

Published on June 11, 2024
Sweet cherries are starting to color, and more June drop is evident in many sweet cherry varieties. Apples are also sizing, and growers are evaluating their thinning outcomes.
Northwest Michigan fruit update – June 4, 2024

Published on June 4, 2024
The northwest region has received ample rainfall, resulting in fast tree and fruit growth. The wet weather and humidity could challenge disease management programs this season.
Northwest Michigan fruit update – May 28, 2024

Published on May 29, 2024
The northwest region received over 1 inch of rainfall, and the moisture and cooler temperatures has resulted in tremendous tree growth. Growers will need to reapply materials to protect against diseases and insects after this rain.