Update on WSU cherry breeding programme: new varieties on the way

Breeding

14 Jan 2026

Washington State University introduces R19, a new sweet and early cherry variety with premium traits for growers and consumers. Part of the WSU cherry breeding program, R19 aims to improve the start of the cherry season in the U.S. Pacific Northwest.

Tart cherry juice and metabolic health: epigenetic and anti-inflammatory mechanisms underpinning an emerging functional food

Health

14 Jan 2026

Tart cherry juice is rich in antioxidants and bioactive compounds that help reduce inflammation, improve metabolic health, and influence gene expression. Recent studies highlight its potential in preventing cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.

Aqueous spot: a new epidermal physiopathy affecting cherries

Quality

13 Jan 2026

Aqueous spot in Burlat sweet cherries in Spain reduces fruit quality and market value. Research from the Jerte Valley shows physiological damage, pigment depletion and a visible–NIR optical signature that enables non‑destructive detection of affected fruit.

Cherry industry faces harsh season: Yakima forum to tackle pricing and oversupply issues

Production

13 Jan 2026

The 2025 cherry season in the Pacific Northwest saw high prices and excess volumes. At Yakima's Cherry Institute 2026, the industry gathers to discuss strategies, market dynamics, export challenges and future crop timing. A turning point for U.S. cherry growers.

Cherries: global price crisis in 2025 hits China, Europe and the Americas

Markets

13 Jan 2026

In 2025, the global cherry market faces a historic crisis: prices down by up to 50%, weak demand and surplus supply. China, Europe, the U.S. and Latin America are among the hardest hit regions. New strategies will be needed in 2026 to compete on quality and timing.

Meda Swan - IVU 514®, a new variety of early-harvesting two-coloured cherry

Varieties

12 Jan 2026

Meda Swan (IVU 514®) is a new early two-coloured cherry variety, selected in California, tested and distributed in Chile. It ripens 10 days earlier than Rainier, has excellent Brix levels and good post-harvest keeping quality and tolerance to storage defects.

Tip Top variety identified in chilean exports labeled as Rose Rainier

Varieties

12 Jan 2026

DNA analysis conducted in China revealed that cherries exported from Chile under the Rose Rainier label were genetically identical to the patented Tip Top variety (Skylar Rae®). ANA Chile® and Tip Top Orchards LLC. announced legal action to protect varietal rights.

Smarter Irrigation for Cherries: Managing Water for Fruit Size, Quality, and Profitability

Tech management

09 Jan 2026

Smart irrigation improves cherry fruit size and profitability. With SWAN Systems, growers in Australia, North America and the Mediterranean can optimize water use, reduce waste and cracking, and boost yield through integrated data, expert guidance and better decisions.

New postharvest standard for cherries: anticipation and quality behind Chile’s leadership

Post-harvest​

09 Jan 2026

Rising volumes and logistical pressure make postharvest management the key driver of Chilean cherry profitability. Anticipation, DPV control, humidification, hydrocooling and contingency planning define a new operational standard to protect fruit quality, size and value.

The expert reports: modern post-harvest management of cherry orchards

Tech management

08 Jan 2026

Essential post-harvest practices to increase cherry orchard yield in Chile. Learn how irrigation, nutrition and pest control help optimize plant recovery, build reserves, and ensure a productive flowering and fruiting season under Chile’s changing climate conditions.