Cherry Growers meeting set for April 11

The 88th Annual Cherry Growers’ meeting presented by the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers Association will be held Saturday, April 11, at the Yellow Bay Community Clubhouse, 23429 Montana 35. 

The meeting is open to anyone interested in growing quality Flathead cherries. Doors open at 8:30 a.m.; the meeting begins at 9 a.m.

Keynote speakers are Matthew Whiting, Washington State University professor of tree fruit horticulture, and Bernardita Sallato, tree fruit specialist with the Washington State University extension. The world-renowned cherry researchers will share their latest findings on cherry tree dormancy, cold hardiness, the impact of proper irrigation management on tree vigor, stress, and fruit quality, nutrient management fundamentals, and the best spray practices with the plant growth regulator gibberellin acid for cherry quality and balancing crop load.   

The day includes a presentation by Steve Glutting on the use of Mason bees for orchard pollination. Agencies that connect with orchard growers will be available for information and assistance.

Attendees will also be able to network with experienced Flathead cherry growers to learn how others have developed successful orchard practices unique to this area. This meeting is worth two course credits for a Private Applicators spray license.      

Advance registration is recommended. General admission is $30 per person and includes morning refreshments and lunch.  If space is still available, registrations will be accepted at the door for $35 per person.  

For more information or to preregister, call (406) 982-3069 or email [email protected]. Information and the registration form are also available on the Flathead Lake Cherry Growers, Inc. website at montanacherries.com in the calendar section under community events.