When Are Cranberries Harvested in Wisconsin?

Cranberries: A Sweet and Tart Holiday Tradition

Cranberries are a staple of the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, but did you know that they’re also a big crop in Wisconsin? In fact, Wisconsin is the leading producer of cranberries in the United States, with over 60% of the country’s cranberry crop grown in the state.

Cranberries are harvested in Wisconsin from September to November, and the peak harvest season is in October. The cranberry harvest is a big deal in Wisconsin, and it’s celebrated with festivals and events all over the state.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the cranberry harvest in Wisconsin, including how it’s done, what challenges growers face, and how the industry is changing. We’ll also share some delicious recipes for using fresh cranberries in your holiday cooking.

So if you’re curious about how cranberries are grown and harvested, or you’re just looking for some delicious cranberry recipes, read on!

Month Harvest Start Harvest End
September 15 October 15
October 16 November 15
November 16 December 15

Cranberry Varieties Grown in Wisconsin

Cranberries are a type of berry that is native to North America. They are grown in a number of states, including Wisconsin. There are a variety of cranberry varieties that are grown in Wisconsin, each with its own unique characteristics.

Some of the most popular cranberry varieties grown in Wisconsin include:

  • Early Black – This variety is one of the earliest to ripen, and it is known for its sweet flavor.
  • Howes – This variety is a mid-season variety that is known for its large size and tart flavor.
  • McFarlin – This variety is a late-season variety that is known for its high yields and resistance to pests and diseases.
  • Stevens – This variety is a late-season variety that is known for its high quality and its ability to withstand cold weather.

These are just a few of the many cranberry varieties that are grown in Wisconsin. Each variety has its own unique characteristics, and growers can choose the varieties that are best suited for their climate and growing conditions.

Cranberry Harvest Season in Wisconsin

The cranberry harvest season in Wisconsin typically runs from September to November. The exact timing of the harvest depends on the variety of cranberry and the weather conditions.

The cranberry harvest is a major economic event in Wisconsin. In 2020, the state produced over 600 million pounds of cranberries, which was valued at over $500 million. The cranberry harvest supports a number of jobs in Wisconsin, including growers, harvesters, and processors.

The cranberry harvest is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. Cranberries are harvested by hand, and they are typically picked in floating cranberry bogs. The harvesters use a rake to gently remove the cranberries from the vines, and they then place the cranberries in a bucket. The buckets are then emptied into a larger container, and the cranberries are transported to a processing plant.

The cranberry harvest is a vital part of the Wisconsin economy. It is a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, but it is also a major economic event that supports a number of jobs in the state.

When Are Cranberries Harvested In Wisconsin?

Cranberries are harvested in Wisconsin from September to November. The exact timing of the harvest depends on the weather conditions, but typically begins in early September and continues through late November. The harvest is a time-consuming process, as cranberries must be picked individually by hand.

Cranberry Harvest Methods in Wisconsin

There are two main methods used to harvest cranberries in Wisconsin: dry harvesting and wet harvesting.

  • Dry harvesting is the traditional method of harvesting cranberries. In this method, cranberries are picked from the vines by hand and then spread out on tarps to dry. Once the cranberries are dry, they are then shipped to processing plants.
  • Wet harvesting is a newer method of harvesting cranberries that is becoming more popular in Wisconsin. In this method, cranberries are picked from the vines by machine and then submerged in water. The cranberries are then separated from the water and shipped to processing plants.

Cranberry Harvest Yields in Wisconsin

The average cranberry harvest in Wisconsin is around 500 million pounds per year. The state is the leading producer of cranberries in the United States, accounting for over 60% of the total U.S. cranberry crop.

Cranberries are a valuable crop for Wisconsin’s economy, and the harvest is a major event in the state. The harvest is a time-consuming process, but it is also a time of celebration for cranberry growers and workers.

When are cranberries harvested in Wisconsin?

Cranberries are harvested in Wisconsin from late September to early November. The exact timing of the harvest depends on the weather conditions, but it typically begins in late September and lasts for about two weeks.

How are cranberries harvested?

Cranberries are harvested by machine. A machine called a “cranberry harvester” is used to shake the cranberries from the vines. The cranberries are then collected in a tank on the harvester and transported to a processing plant.

What is the best way to store cranberries?

Cranberries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months. They can also be frozen for up to one year.

What are some of the best ways to use cranberries?

Cranberries can be used in a variety of ways, including:

  • Cranberry sauce
  • Cranberry juice
  • Cranberry muffins
  • Cranberry pie
  • Cranberry relish
  • Cranberry-applesauce
  • Cranberry-orange salad

Are cranberries healthy?

Cranberries are a healthy fruit. They are a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and fiber. They also contain antioxidants that can help to protect against cancer and other diseases.

Where can I buy cranberries?

Cranberries can be purchased at most grocery stores. They are also available online.

cranberries are harvested in Wisconsin from September to November. The peak harvest season is in October. Cranberries are a valuable crop for the state of Wisconsin, and they contribute to the economy in a number of ways. The cranberry industry provides jobs for thousands of people, and it also helps to support other businesses in the state. Cranberries are a healthy and delicious fruit, and they are enjoyed by people all over the world.

Author Profile

Arthur Cook
Arthur Cook
Meet Arthur Cook, the heart and soul behind Plant4Harvest.com. Arthur’s story is deeply rooted in the rich soil of a small American town, where the horizon is wide, and the values of hard work and connection to the land run deep. Born and raised in the quaint town of Elkmont, Alabama, Arthur’s journey in agriculture began in the sprawling fields of his family’s farm, a stone’s throw away from the Tennessee border.

Arthur’s thirst for agricultural knowledge led him to Auburn University, where he majored in Agricultural Science. During his college years, Arthur dedicated his summers to working on local farms, gaining practical experience in modern farming techniques. His academic and real-world experiences combined to give him a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in American agriculture.

Arthur Cook is more than just a farmer; he is an advocate for sustainable agriculture and a mentor to the next generation of farmers. Through Plant4Harvest.com, he continues to inspire, educate, and engage with a community of individuals who share his love for the land and commitment to preserving it for future generations.