Cherry season: how to choose a tasty one and how much you can eat

      May 27, 2026 12:55 Society The cherry season has started in central Russia, and now many are wondering how to choose the most delicious and healthy berries. Andrey Tumanov, chairman of the all-Russian organization "Gardeners of Russia," shared valuable tips that will help make the right choice.

      Cherry Varieties

      The expert told 360.ru that among the most popular varieties grown in our latitudes, "Napoleon" stands out. The berries of this variety are large, dark purple in color, and have an excellent taste. It is also worth noting the "Fathish" variety, which is suitable for industrial cultivation, and "Valery Chkalov," known since Soviet times.

      For lovers of winter-hardy varieties, "Leningrad Black" is suitable, capable of withstanding frosts down to -40 degrees. This variety was developed in the 1970s and is still popular today.

      Growing Cherries

      Growing cherries can be more profitable than growing sour cherries due to their resistance to fungal diseases. Although cherries can also be affected by moniliosis, this disease usually only leads to the rotting of berries, which can be easily removed. In contrast, moniliosis in sour cherries can completely destroy the tree.

      Choosing Cherries at the Market

      When choosing cherries, it is important to pay attention to several factors:

      - Cleanliness and appearance: The berries should be clean, without cracks or signs of wilting.

      - Color of the stem: Green stems indicate the freshness of the berry. Brown and dried stems may indicate that the berry is overripe or has been stored for a long time.

      - Taste test on site: To ensure the quality of the berry, it is recommended to taste it on site. For this, you can take one berry, wash it, and assess the taste.

      Cherry Season

      The domestic cherry season begins in late May - early June. During this time, berries are brought from the southern regions of Russia, as well as from abroad. Imported cherries are available year-round, but their quality may vary.

      Where to Buy Cherries

      Cherries are sold both at markets and in stores. Markets usually offer more beautiful and selected berries, but tasty fruits can also be found in stores. The choice depends on your preferences and budget.

      Benefits and Harms of Cherries

      Cherries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that are beneficial for health, emphasized gastroenterologist Alexander Prikazchikov. They contain:

      - Vitamin C - protects cells from toxins and aging.

      - Vitamin A - beneficial for eyes and skin.

      - B vitamins - necessary for the nervous system and metabolism.

      - Vitamin E and niacin - strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.

      - Anthocyanins - reduce inflammation and lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

      - Quercetin - slows down cell aging.

      - Hydroxycinnamic acids - protect against oxidative stress.

      However, like any product, it is important to consume cherries in moderation. Cherries contain carbohydrates that can cause gas, stomach pain, and bloating. People with irritable bowel syndrome should be particularly cautious when consuming cherries.

      "The more cherries you eat, the higher the risk of gas, stomach pain, bloating, and unstable stools. However, the amount is individual: some may need to eat half a kilogram for this, while others may only need 50 or 100 grams," the specialist clarified.

      Storing Cherries

      To keep cherries fresh, it is better not to buy them in bulk. Berries spoil quickly, so it is best to consume them within a few days after purchase. If you need to store cherries longer, you can try the following methods:

      - Refrigeration: Cherries can be stored in the refrigerator in a plastic container to prevent the berries from touching each other.

      - Freezing: If you plan to use cherries in the future, they can be frozen. For this, the berries should be washed, dried, and placed in portioned bags or containers.

      It is important to wash cherries thoroughly under running water. Do not eat them straight from the bag, as the fruits may have fungicides - chemical substances used to combat plant fungal diseases. Consuming such fruits can lead to poisoning.

      Earlier, it was reported how much a kilogram of seasonal berries would cost Nizhny Novgorod residents. NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has channels on Telegram and MAX. Subscribe to stay updated on major events, exclusive materials, and timely information. Copyright © 1999—2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". When reprinting, a hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is mandatory. This resource may contain materials 18+