Cedar Bay cherry growing

The Jewel of the North: Cultivating Cedar Bay Cherries

Nestled along the rugged coastlines and verdant valleys of Northern Michigan, a unique and resilient fruit thrives: the Cedar Bay cherry. While the Traverse City region is globally renowned for its tart cherries, a lesser-known but equally captivating variety has carved out its own niche, offering a delightful sweetness and a compelling story of adaptation and flavor. Cedar Bay cherries, with their vibrant crimson hue and nuanced taste, are a testament to the ingenuity of local growers and the rich agricultural heritage of this picturesque landscape.

The history of Cedar Bay cherries is as intriguing as their flavor profile. While their exact origins are somewhat debated, the consensus points to their development and popularization in the Cedar Bay area of Leelanau County, Michigan. Unlike the Montmorency or Northern varieties that dominate the commercial cherry market, Cedar Bay cherries are believed to be a natural crossbreed or a distinct landrace that has adapted exceptionally well to the unique microclimates of Northern Michigan. This adaptability is crucial, as the region experiences harsh winters and a relatively short growing season, demanding fruits that can withstand these challenges and still produce a bountiful harvest.

Cultivating Cedar Bay cherries requires a nuanced understanding of their specific needs. These trees, while hardy, are not entirely without their demands.

Site Selection and Soil Preparation:

The cornerstone of successful Cedar Bay cherry cultivation lies in selecting the right location. Like most fruit trees, they require ample sunlight, ideally a minimum of six to eight hours of direct sun per day. Well-drained soil is paramount. Cherry trees are susceptible to root rot, and waterlogged conditions can be detrimental. Sandy loam or loamy soils are generally preferred, offering a good balance of drainage and nutrient retention. Prior to planting, amending the soil with organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, can significantly improve soil structure and fertility. A soil test is highly recommended to determine pH levels and identify any nutrient deficiencies. Cedar Bay cherries typically prefer a slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.

Planting and Varieties:

When planting bare-root trees, typically done in early spring before bud break, dig a hole that is wide enough to accommodate the root system without bending or circling. The graft union, the swollen point where the rootstock and scion are joined, should be positioned above the soil line. For container-grown trees, plant them at the same depth they were in the nursery pot.

While "Cedar Bay cherry" often refers to a specific type, there can be some variation within this designation, often stemming from local seed propagation. However, the defining characteristics remain: a relatively smaller size compared to some commercial varieties, a deep red color, and a distinct balance of sweetness with a subtle tartness. Many growers may also be cultivating other similar, locally adapted sweet or semi-sweet cherry varieties that share the resilience and flavor profile associated with the Cedar Bay name.

Care and Maintenance:

• Watering: Young trees require consistent watering, especially during their first few years and during dry spells. Once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from deep watering during prolonged dry periods, particularly when fruit is developing. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases.



• Fertilization: A balanced fertilizer, applied in early spring before new growth begins, is generally sufficient. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
• Pruning: Pruning is essential for shaping the tree, improving air circulation, and removing dead or diseased branches. For young trees, the focus is on establishing a strong central leader and scaffold branches. Mature trees benefit from annual pruning to maintain size, remove crossing branches, and encourage fruit production on spurs. Pruning is typically done in late winter or early spring before the sap begins to flow.
• Pest and Disease Management: Cedar Bay cherries, like all fruit trees, are susceptible to various pests and diseases. Common concerns include cherry fruit flies, aphids, and fungal diseases like brown rot and powdery mildew. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies are recommended, which involve a combination of monitoring, cultural practices, and targeted treatments only when necessary. Encouraging beneficial insects, maintaining good orchard sanitation, and choosing disease-resistant varieties when possible are all key components of effective pest and disease control.

Harvesting:

The harvest season for Cedar Bay cherries typically falls in mid to late summer, usually in July or early August, depending on the specific microclimate and the year’s weather patterns. The cherries are ready to be picked when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch, yielding gently when squeezed. For the best flavor and sweetness, it’s important to let them ripen fully on the tree. Harvesting is usually done by hand, carefully plucking the cherries to avoid damaging the fruiting spurs.

The Flavor of Cedar Bay Cherries:

What sets Cedar Bay cherries apart is their unique flavor profile. While they possess a pleasant sweetness, they also retain a subtle, refreshing tartness that prevents them from being cloying. This balanced flavor makes them incredibly versatile in the kitchen. They are delightful when eaten fresh, offering a burst of juicy goodness with every bite. Their inherent sweetness also means they require less added sugar in recipes compared to some other tart varieties.

Culinary Delights: A Recipe Showcase

The balanced flavor of Cedar Bay cherries makes them a star ingredient in a variety of dishes, from simple snacks to elegant desserts. Here are a few recipe ideas to inspire your culinary adventures:

1. Fresh Cedar Bay Cherry Salad with Goat Cheese and Toasted Almonds

This salad is a celebration of fresh, seasonal flavors, highlighting the natural sweetness and subtle tartness of the cherries.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 cups fresh Cedar Bay cherries, pitted and halved
  • 4 cups mixed salad greens (e.g., arugula, spinach, butter lettuce)
  • 4 oz goat cheese, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup toasted slivered almonds
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion (optional, for a bit of bite)
  • For the Dressing:
    • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
    • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
    • 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
    • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, halved cherries, crumbled goat cheese, toasted almonds, and red onion (if using).
  2. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Drizzle the dressing over the salad.
  4. Toss gently to coat all the ingredients. Serve immediately.

2. Cedar Bay Cherry and Almond Crumble

A comforting and easy-to-make dessert that showcases the sweet-tart goodness of the cherries.

• Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh Cedar Bay cherries, pitted
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
  • For the Crumble Topping:
    • 1 cup all-purpose flour
    • 1/2 cup rolled oats
    • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
    • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9-inch pie plate or an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the pitted cherries, granulated sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, and almond extract (if using). Stir gently to coat the cherries. Pour the cherry mixture into the prepared baking dish.
  3. In a separate bowl, combine the flour, rolled oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
  4. Add the cold butter cubes to the dry ingredients. Using your fingertips or a pastry blender, cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  5. Evenly sprinkle the crumble topping over the cherry mixture.
  6. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the cherry filling is bubbly.
  7. Let cool for at least 10-15 minutes before serving. Delicious served warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

3. Cedar Bay Cherry and White Chocolate Scones

A delightful twist on a classic scone, infused with the bright flavor of cherries and the creamy sweetness of white chocolate.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (1 stick) cold unsalted butter, cut into small cubes
  • 1/2 cup Cedar Bay cherries, pitted and roughly chopped
  • 1/3 cup white chocolate chips
  • 3/4 cup cold heavy cream (or buttermilk)
  • 1 large egg, beaten (for egg wash, optional)
  • Sugar, for sprinkling (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cut in the cold butter using your fingertips or a pastry blender until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
  4. Gently fold in the chopped cherries and white chocolate chips.
  5. Make a well in the center of the dry ingredients and pour in the cold heavy cream. Stir with a fork until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The dough should be shaggy and slightly sticky.
  6. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Gently pat it into a round disc, about 3/4 inch thick.
  7. Cut the disc into 8 wedges using a sharp knife or bench scraper.
  8. Place the wedges on the prepared baking sheet. If desired, brush the tops with the beaten egg and sprinkle with sugar.
  9. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown and cooked through.
  10. Let cool on a wire rack. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Conclusion:

The Cedar Bay cherry is more than just a fruit; it’s a symbol of Northern Michigan’s resilience, agricultural spirit, and dedication to producing exceptional quality. From their carefully cultivated trees to their delectable taste, these cherries offer a unique culinary experience. Whether you’re lucky enough to find them fresh at a local market or decide to embark on the rewarding journey of growing them yourself, Cedar Bay cherries are a true jewel of the North, waiting to be savored. Their balanced sweetness and subtle tartness make them a versatile ingredient, proving that sometimes, the most extraordinary flavors come from the most unexpected places.