The trees laden with clusters of glossy red cherries, gleaming like jewels in the sunlight, signal the start of Tru-Cape’s 2025 cherry season in Ceres. Producers expect a 5–7% larger crop than last season, along with excellent fruit quality.
According to Calla du Toit, Tru-Cape’s procurement director, the season’s crop stems from an ideal combination of rainfall and sunshine.
“The growing conditions have been among the best we’ve ever experienced. We had good rain before flowering, and then warm, sunny weather during bloom, perfect for cherries. That meant excellent pollination and strong fruit set across the board,” Du Toit said.
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He noted that they are really optimistic about this year’s crop. “The cherries are tasting fantastic. Everything points to a season of exceptional quality.”
A promising harvest
Deon Malherbe, one of Tru-Cape’s cherry producers from Eselfontein farm near Ceres, said the region is on track for its largest cherry harvest to date. “Alongside strong yields from established orchards, many young blocks are bearing fruit for the first time this season.”
According to Nico Verhoef of Witzenberg Properties, one of Tru-Cape’s leading cherry producers in the region, the 2025 harvest has started about seven to ten days earlier than last year.
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“Cherries are much higher on consumers’ shopping lists in the run-up to Christmas than afterwards. The earlier season gives us an extra week of sales, which is highly beneficial,” Du Toit added.
Expanding export markets
While Tru-Cape cherries will continue to have a strong local presence, including under the new “My Cherry” brand, the company is also expanding into new export markets amid growing international interest.
“While most of our cherries will still be sold locally, a significant share will be shipped to Europe and the UK this year,” Du Toit said.
A highlight of the season will be the upcoming visit from a Chinese trade delegation to inspect local cherry orchards and pack-houses, a key step toward securing market access to China.
“There are significant opportunities in China,” said Du Toit. “South Africa has a two- to three-week advantage before Chilean cherries enter the market. That short window could be extremely valuable for our industry.”
Tru-Cape and its growers are introducing eco-friendly packaging made partly from recycled paper, reducing plastic use and supporting a more circular economy.
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