‘Guarded optimism’ found in 2023 tree fruit harvest projections

OTHELLO — While there’s a long way to go before fruit is in the warehouse – and in grocery store produce departments – cherry, apple and pear growers might be looking at a pretty good year in 2023. “There’s a lot of guarded optimism,” said Tim Kovis, director of communications and events for the Washington State Tree Fruit Association. Cold weather delayed the bloom season, which in turn will delay harvest. Kovis said the estimate on May 18 was that cherry harvest would start about June 15 to 20. “Which puts us about 15 days later than usual,” he said.