Shimla, May 11 -- Despite the delay in fruit set and ripening of the cherry, due to unfavourable and changing weather conditions, it has got off to a good start this time with the premium quality of the fruit fetching Rs.400 to Rs.900 a kilogram.

The stone fruit arrival in state markets was delayed by a fortnight due to the dry winter. But growers are hopeful of reaping a rich harvest as fruit is fetching double last year's rates, given the demand.

Consignment of cherries reaching the Dhali vegetable market from Kotgarh, Kumarsain and Nankhadi is being sold in the market for Rs.400 to Rs.900 per kilogram. Cherry harvest has begun in the low heights but it's yet to take off in the higher regions.

Last year, cherry reached the market on ...