Michigan Cherry Crop Faces 2026 Risk as Frost Fans Run 16 Times

2 articles · Updated · Michigan Public · May 25

Michigan State University Extension said the 2026 cherry crop is at risk after weeks of weather swings from the mid-80s to below freezing damaged blossoms and disrupted pollination.
Bees need temperatures above 60 degrees and sun to fly, but rain, high winds and stop-start bloom timing have narrowed the window for flowers to be pollinated and set fruit.
King Orchards in Antrim County ran frost fans 16 times this season versus 1 night last year, with operating costs reaching about $400 an hour across the orchard.
Northern Michigan may have avoided the worst because some frost hit before full bloom, but growers say west-central and southwest Michigan likely suffered heavier crop loss.
The industry still faces a waiting game until fruit set, adding to a decade of weather volatility, shrinking crops, rising input costs and weak grower returns.

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