Cherry season in Stuttgart: How to achieve the perfect harvest in 2025!

Cherry season in Stuttgart: How to achieve the perfect harvest in 2025!

The cherry harvest has begun in Germany in 2025, and the Stuttgart region is proving to be a true cherry stronghold. Despite an initial drought that resulted in smaller fruits, the harvest can be rated as good overall. These positive reports come primarily from the Esslingen district and around Stuttgart. Here, many hobby gardeners harvest cherries from their own gardens and some from nearby farms. However, according to SWR, the yield has decreased somewhat this year, which is confirmed by hail damage in the Esslingen district and reports from fruit farmer Uwe Schneider from Walheim.

The cherry season typically extends from the end of May to July, with the first ripe fruits often being harvested at the end of May. The variety of varieties plays a crucial role here. Early ripening varieties such as 'Burlat' and 'Büttners Rote Knorpelkirsche' are ready to pick from the end of May, while later varieties such as 'Regina' and 'Karina' often only develop their full sweetness in July.

Challenges for fruit growers

Despite the positive harvest season, there are also challenges that fruit growers have to keep an eye on. The cherry vinegar fly is a danger that is causing increasing uncertainty this year. These pests lay their eggs in ripe cherries and can ruin entire crops. To avoid damage, experts recommend harvesting ripe fruits directly. This is pointed out by the LVWO, which also warns that the infestation of cherry vinegar flies could increase as temperatures fall and humidity increases.

To preserve the cherries, it is recommended to pick the fruits with the stems on and store them in a cool, dry place. This means the cherries stay fresh for around four to six days. Slightly overripe cherries are ideal for making jam or cake, while the sweet varieties should be enjoyed fresh or used in desserts.

Cherry harvest in your own garden

Hobby gardeners also have the opportunity to harvest their own cherries and often achieve high yields. Choosing the right harvest time is crucial. As The Weather reports, cherries should be harvested from sunny branches as they often have a more intense aroma. Harvesting should be done carefully, with sweet cherries easily detached from the stem, while sour cherries should be harvested first with scissors to avoid injury to the branches.

Cherries can also be frozen pitted to extend their enjoyment for up to two months. Overall, the cherry harvest this year remains an important event that pleases both fruit growers and amateur gardeners. If you are looking for fresh cherries, you can find them directly from the fruit grower or you can even auction cherry trees, like those offered in Hepsisau.

Prices for cherries vary and are currently between five and ten euros per kilo. Picking things yourself is usually cheaper and not only makes good business, but also brings a lot of joy. With the right tips for harvesting and storage, the 2025 cherry harvest in your own garden will be a success!