We have operated a fruit farm for over 50 years. Hohnke & Sons, Inc is currently farming about 150 acres of cherries and apples, and we hire about six seasonal workers for the apple harvest, and three for the cherry harvest.

Cherry harvest labor involves operating tractors for handling 18-bushel boxes or cherry tanks. Apples are hand picked for either fresh market or processing.

Cherry harvest season runs from approximately July 10 - August 10, seven days per week, and is subject to occasional shut downs for weather, breakdowns or processor quotas. Apple harvest starts in mid to late September and lasts 3-5 weeks depending on the crop size and quality. Workers may also get extra picking on neighboring apple farms.

Most of the work is paid by piece rate, and are competitive with other area growers. We pay a premium for picking fresh market apples, and we guarantee the State minimum wage.

We have two licensed family housing units for six workers each. There is no charge for housing or utilities.

Workers are covered for unemployment insurance and workers' compensation. Each housing unit is plumbed for a washing machine, but none are provided. Workers must comply with all government employment documentation requirements (I-9, W-4, etc.) before they can be hired. The farm is located at 3383 E. Hohnke Rd., about 5 miles north of Cedar, MI and 20 miles from Traverse City.