In their latest published estimate for the cherry crop, Northwest Cherry Growers remain bullish. This year’s crop is expected to be 40 percent over last year’s 14.3 million boxes.

The “Round #2” forecast shows that the Skeena variety has the best set this year, while Rainiers show a drop in expected tonnage from the earlier estimate.

Among the favorable trends: the fruit set is spread evenly throughout the trees and growers are expecting more fruit in June — more than ever recorded — which provides greater volume in stores for consumers shopping for the July 4 holiday. The forecast says there will be up to 7.6 million boxes in June.  (All forecasts are subject to rain and other uncontrollables.)

Harvest is expected to gear up in the next few days.

Here’s a link to the Round #2 estimate.