Michigan's climate, soil and water resources make our state an excellent location for cranberry production. Most Michigan cranberries are produced for the fresh market. Some are processed into juice or other cranberry products.

The cranberry, along with blueberries and Concord grapes, is one of three of North America's native fruits that are commercially grown. Pilgrims named the fruit, "craneberry" because of the small, pink blossoms that appear in spring resemble the head and bill of a Sandhill crane.

Cranberry production requires large amounts of water. In the fall and spring, water is sprinkled on the plants to protect them against frost damage. The beds are flooded for harvesting and to protect the plants from cold weather.

Cranberries are a superior source of nutrition and vitamins, including vitamin C, and contain antioxidants, natural plant products that may protect against cancer, heart disease and other illnesses.

For more information about Michigan cranberries, contact:

Michigan Cranberry Council