Last summer’s scorching string of 100-degree days did more than break records in the Valley, it zapped the strength out of many of the region’s prized cherry trees, resulting in a much smaller crop this year.
Some cherry growers in Fresno and Tulare counties are reporting significant losses while others appear to have dodged a bullet.
Daniel Jackson in Kingsburg grows cherries on 30 acres and considers himself lucky he has fruit to pick this season. Unlike previous years, when Jackson’s bountiful trees produced enough fruit for up to four harvests, he may only get one and a half this year…