Cherries in the orchards of Central California are now ready for harvest. I have been watching them slowly ripen over the last couple of months, so decided that I just had to take some pictures on Sunday before they disappear from the trees.

These cherries look so beautiful. They are now a nice dark red and look like they are ready for picking.

It is interesting to look at the trees and see how the cherries are clustered together.

The cherries also look a bit different in color as the light hits them. The ones in the shade are a bit darker and those in the sun are lighter.

They look so plump and delicious, and they were. I have met the owner of this cherry orchard in the past and he told me that I was always welcome to pick a few to eat once they were ripe.

Look at this big cluster of cherries. They really weigh down the branches of the trees. The branches will not hang as low once the harvest is over.

The cherries have come a long way from when they were just emerging from the blossoms.

Do you like fresh cherries?

Steven