Cherry picking put Door County on the map as a tourist destination. But, cherries delight more than just the taste buds. Every year, thousands of people descend upon Door County for the visual feast of the cherry blossoms. Seeing the Door County cherry blossoms is just that important to them.
I don’t have to travel to see the cherry blossoms in Door County, since I live here. But, I understand why so many people travel here to see them. Personally, the blossoming of the cherry trees hits me right in the chest every single year.
I’m not sure why they have that impact on me. Perhaps it’s the flourish of color after a long, grey winter. Maybe it’s the anticipation for the cherry harvest in a few months’ time. Either way, when the cherry blossoms come out, I end up taking the long way wherever I’m going so that I can take them in for a few more minutes each day.
I’d love for you to experience the cherry blossoms too. That’s why I wrote this post. Here is what we’re going to cover:
- Are the cherry trees blossoming in Door County right now?
- When do the cherry trees usually blossom in Door County?
- How long do the cherry trees blossom in Door County?
- Where can you see Door County cherry blossoms?
- Why are there cherry trees in Door County?
- Frequently asked questions
As you plan your trip to Door County, our post on Door County’s best hotels can help you find great lodging to suit your needs.
Are the Cherry Trees Blossoming in Door County Right Now in 2024?
No. As of May 21, 2024, the cherry trees are not blossoming in Door County.
The cherry blossom bloom in Door County has come fully to an end in the southern part of the county and is likely to come fully to an end in all areas of the county. A few blossoms may be seen over the next few days in orchards further north and closer to the water. However, planning a trip to Door County to take in the blossoms at this time is inadvisable.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 20, 2024
The following pictures were taken on May 20, 2024, south of Sturgeon Bay:
A blossom or two are hanging on at this point, but by-and-large the bloom has come to an end, and it’s time to plan next year’s journey to Door County to see the cherry blossoms.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 14, 2024
The following pictures where taken on May 13, 2024, south of Sturgeon Bay:
The blossoms are now past their peak. they are not as brilliantly white as when they are new, and they have started to thin somewhat.
I document an orchard in the southern part of the county, and far inland. Orchards further north and closer to the water will be a few days “behind” this orchard in the blossom cycle.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 8, 2024
The following pictures were taken on May 6, 2024, south of Sturgeon Bay:
Cherry Blossom Status on May 6, 2024
The following pictures were taken on May 6, 2024:
As you can see, the cherry blossoms are beginning to fill out on the trees and in the orchard. However, keep in mind that I document an orchard in one of the warmest spots in Door County. This orchard is likely to be ahead of orchards in cooler spots, such as by the water and further north.
Here are some thoughts about how this year’s cherry blossom bloom is progressing:
Slower Progressing
Even though this year’s cherry blossom bloom is earlier than last year’s, by about a week, it is slower progressing. Some orchards are starting to bloom, some still haven’t bloomed.
Even the trees that have bloomed still have some buds that haven’t turned into flowers yet.
The cherry trees woke up a little earlier, but they’re still a little groggy!
Likely to be Longer
Since it’s taking longer for everything to fully bloom, I think that the cherry blossom bloom will be a little longer than it was last year. Last year, everything came out and was done in about a week’s time.
This year, I think that everything will take a little longer. Individiual orchards are blooming at different times, based on their location and its microclimate. Even within those orchards, the individual trees aren’t putting all their blossoms out at once.
This means that things will last a little longer.
Very Spotty
Based on my observations from south of Sturgeon Bay, some orchards are in full bloom. Others haven’t even started blooming yet. North of Sturgeon Bay, it will be even more spotty still.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 3, 2024
The blossoms have begun to emerge. However, the bloom is in the very beginning stages and has begun in the warmest parts of the county.
I document an orchard about as far south in Door County as you can get, and deeply inland on the peninsula. Areas further north and closer to the water are unlikely to have any cherry blossoms at all, yet.
However, I believe that you will be assured of seeing nice blossoms at many places in the county within a few days or so.
Here are pictures taken on May 3:
Cherry Blossom Status on April 28, 2024
The following pictures were taken on April 28, 2024. Based on my observations from last year, these buds look like they are just about to burst open into beautiful cherry blossoms:
Cherry Blossom Status on April April 19, 2024
The following pictures were taken on April 19, 2024. The buds have gotten fatter as the blossom bloom nears.
Cherry Blossom Status on April 9, 2024
The following pictures were taken at on April 9, 2024. As you can see, the cherry blossoms aren’t out yet, but there are buds on the trees, promising a bloom in a few weeks.
When Do the Cherry Trees Blossom in Door County?
The cherry trees typically blossom anywhere from mid-May through early-June. However, when the cherry trees blossom is different every year and in every place.
Some years the cherry trees will blossom earlier. Some years, they will blossom later. It depends a great deal on the weather and even on what their blossoms were like the previous year.
The cherry trees will also blossom at different times on different parts of the Door Peninsula. The blossoms will come out earlier at orchards further south and in the middle or towards Green Bay. Orchards further north and towards Lake Michigan will have blossoms later.
Keep scrolling through this article to see previous years’ cherry blossom status reports so that you can gauge when to plan your trip to Door County to see the blooms.
How Long Do the Cherry Trees Blossom in Door County?
Typically, the blossoms will stay out for about a week. But, this can also vary from year to year. A strong wind storm or hail can knock those blossoms right off.
The point is this: As soon as you hear that the cherry trees are blossoming, make your trip up to Door County to check them out. You’ll be glad you did, and if you wait, you might miss it.
Where Can You See the Cherry Blossoms of Door County?
You can check out the cherry blossoms of Door County orchards across the county! The blossoms of Door County are hard to miss because they are so spread out. Florists, flower lovers, and aesthetes will love to see them. Remember, though, that these orchards are private property. Be respectful and get permission before you go into the orchard for your Instagram shots!
Check out our post on cherry picking in Door County to find out more about orchards in the area.
Documentation of Previous Years’ Cherry Blossoms
To help you determine when best to plan a trip to Door County to see the cherry blossoms, we are including documentation of previous years’ cherry blossoms. We plan to add to this each year, so that our readers can get a sense of when it is best to come and see the cherry blossoms.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 23, 2023
While a few petals are still hanging on, as of May 23, 2023, the cherry trees are mostly bare and without blossoms.
There are likely some orchards with more petals on the trees further north in Door County. But, these should likely be gone in a matter of a couple days.
If you missed the cherry blossoms, this doesn’t mean that there aren’t beautiful blossoms to see in the area. Apple trees and ornamental trees are blossoming beautifully.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 18, 2023
The cherry blossoms at Meleddy Orchard near Forestville, WI are still beautiful, though perhaps a little bit past their prime. Some petals are starting to come off, and the blossoms have taken a little bit of color to them. They are no longer the brilliant white when they first came out.
Other orchards in the county are still in their prime, particular further north and closer to Lake Michigan.
Now is the time to come up and see the blossoms. Don’t wait. I estimate that you have about one week to be able to confidently encounter cherry blossoms in Door County.
Cherry Blossom Status on May 12, 2023
Well, that was quick! Only three days, and we went from buds to full flowers. These pictures were taken at Meleddy Orchard in southern Door County, near Forestville. Meleddy is in the southern part of the county, and further inland. This means that it gets warmer weather than other orchards around the county. It is probably one of the first orchards to have cherry blossoms in the county.
Likely, some of the orchards in the northern part of the county, and orchards closer to Lake Michigan, aren’t in full flower yet.
However, now is the time to start coming or planning your trip to see the cherry blossoms in Door County. Make sure to get here over the next two weeks, or you might miss out!
Cherry Blossom Status on May 9, 2023
We have a little burst of activity this week! Here is what the cherry blossoms look like as of May 9, 2023:
As you can see, the buds are beginning to open up. A few more weeks, and we’ll have beautiful flowers to look at.
Keep checking back for more updates!
Cherry Blossom Status on May 2, 2023
Here is what the cherry blossoms look like as of May 2, 2023:
As you can see, the cherry trees are still in their bud stage and have yet to blossom. But, comparing this picture with the one from April 25, I believe that you can see that they are making progress. The buds are more plump and have a deeper red color. Can’t wait to see these guys blossom in a few weeks!
Cherry Blossom Status on April 25, 2023
Here is what the cherry blossoms look like as of April 25, 2023:
This picture was taken at Meleddy Orchard near Forestville, WI. The trees have some nice, large buds on them, but it’s still going to be a few weeks until they blossom out. Keep checking back to see when they blossom.
Cherry Blossom Status on April 15, 2023
Why Are There Cherry Trees in Door County?
After European settlers cleared the land, they began experimenting with agricultural crops. This was more difficult in Door County than in other areas of the country. The harsh climate and difficult soils meant that many crops failed.
Finally, one farmer tried cherries. He found success!
It turns out that Door County was an ideal place to grow cherry trees. Cherries like alkaline, well-drained soils. This meant that Door County’s hillsides were a perfect place to grow them.
Also, cherries like it cold, but not too cold. Being far north gives the cherry trees the cold they need, but the moderating effect of Lake Michigan’s waters helps to keep hard frosts at bay in the Fall.
A Classic, American Experience | Vintage Americana
Visiting cherry blossoms is about as vintage Americana as it gets. It’s a classic American experience – wholesome and timeless. When you visit Door County’s cherry blossoms, you know that you’re experiencing a pleasure that your grandmother, and great-grandmother would have enjoyed as well. In this time of rapid change, isn’t about time to get back to our roots?
Can Cherry Blossom Trees Grow in Wisconsin?
Yes, cherry blossom trees can grow in Wisconsin.
Among the varieties suited to Wisconsin’s weather are the Yoshino Cherry (Prunus x yedoensis) and the Kwanzan Cherry (Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’), both celebrated for their vibrant spring blossoms. These trees prefer well-drained soil and ample sunlight, conditions that are commonly found in Wisconsin.
The Yoshino Cherry, with its white to pale pink flowers, and the Kwanzan Cherry, famous for its deep pink, double-layered petals, can both withstand Wisconsin’s cold winters. This adaptability makes them a splendid choice for adding a splash of color to Wisconsin landscapes.
Cherry Blossoms in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, a state known for its varied landscapes, offers a spectacular display of cherry blossoms each spring. Door County, in particular, is renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossom season, when the orchards and parks are draped in delicate pink and white flowers.
Another notable location is the Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, where visitors can admire a variety of cherry trees in full bloom. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum also hosts a stunning array of blossoms. These places, especially during peak bloom, offer a mesmerizing experience with nature’s beauty, drawing visitors and photographers alike to witness the enchanting transformation of Wisconsin’s scenery.
Fruit Trees That Grow in Wisconsin
Wisconsin’s climate supports a variety of fruit trees, offering a delightful range for gardeners. Apples are the most popular, with hardy varieties like Honeycrisp and McIntosh thriving in the state’s cooler temperatures. Cherry trees, particularly tart cherries, are well-suited to Wisconsin’s climate, with Door County famous for its cherry orchards.
Plums, with varieties like the hardy Damson, flourish here too, offering delicious summer fruit. Pear trees, such as the Bartlett and Bosc, grow well, although they require some cold protection. Peach trees, like the Reliance and Contender, can also be grown, but they demand more care due to Wisconsin’s chilly winters.
Cherry Orchards in Wisconsin
Wisconsin, with its fertile soil and favorable climate, is home to numerous cherry orchards, making it a prime location for cherry enthusiasts. Door County, often hailed as the heart of Wisconsin’s cherry cultivation, boasts extensive orchards where visitors can enjoy cherry picking and savor fresh, locally-grown cherries. The region’s unique microclimate along the shores of Lake Michigan provides ideal conditions for cherry trees.
Other notable areas include Bayfield County, where orchards offer a picturesque backdrop against the lake. Many farms in these areas also host annual cherry festivals, celebrating the harvest with tours, tastings, and family-friendly activities, drawing both locals and tourists to experience Wisconsin’s rich cherry heritage.
Door County Cherry Festival
Every year the village of Jacksonport puts on its annual Cherry Fest. This is a great opportunity to celebrate the cherry picking tradition in Door County.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s different every year, based on many factors. However, as a rule, they blossom between mid-May and early-June.
Door County has cherry orchards throughout the peninsula. Popular places to see cherry blossoms are Seaquist Orchards and Sorens Valhalla Orchards.
The cherry orchards are private property. You should get permission before entering them to take pictures.
Conclusion
Coming up to Door County to check out the cherry blossoms is really worth it. I hope this post has helped give you the information you need to plan your trip.
If you come, I’m sure you’ll find the sights as moving as I do. I hope to see you here for the Door County cherry blossoms.
God bless,
Mark Stoneman
