The first local cherries of the year are now on sale in Osoyoos. Rai Produce, just west of Osoyoos on Highway 3, was selling local cherries Friday. They claim these are the very first in Osoyoos, weeks earlier than usual. From left are Sarabjit Rai (owner), Clara McKeachie (employee), Paramjit Rai (owner) and Aman Rai (son of Sarabjit). Sarabjit says this is the earliest he’s ever seen cherries in 20 years of business. They usually come around June 10 to 14. These ones are Chelans. Expect more varieties, lower prices and greater quantities very soon. (Richard McGuire photo)
The first local cherries of the year are now on sale in Osoyoos.
Rai Produce, whose stand is just west of Osoyoos on Highway 3, was selling local cherries Friday. They claim these are the very first in Osoyoos, weeks earlier than usual. And quite possibly, they are the earliest cherries in Canada. Cherries from other growers are also said to be ready and will soon be on the stands if they aren’t already.
Sarabjit Rai, who owns the business with his brother Paramjit, says this is the earliest he’s ever seen cherries in 20 years of business. They usually come around June 10 to 14. The May 22 arrival means they are about three weeks earlier than normal.
His son, Aman Rai, who just turned 19, said these are the earliest cherries in his lifetime.
The early cherries are the result of an especially warm and early spring this year. Last year also saw a warm spring, but the first cherries came about a week later.
These ones are Chelans. Expect more varieties, lower prices and greater quantities very soon.
(Richard McGuire photo)
