High-density cherry trees: Serbian research identifies the best rootstock–cultivar combinations

Planting systems

19 Feb 2026

A 13-year study in Čačak, Serbia, on a high-density sweet cherry orchard (1,250 trees/ha) comparing Mazzard and Colt rootstocks. Growth, yield, fruit quality and profitability were assessed on heavy, acidic soils without irrigation, highlighting long-term differences.

From Central Otago to Asia: premium cherries from Clyde Orchards

Production

19 Feb 2026

In Central Otago, Clyde Orchards grows, packages and exports premium cherries to China, Taiwan, Malaysia and Singapore. Over 105 hectares managed with vertical integration, a favourable climate and RSE labour support quality, freshness and positioning in Asian markets.

Cherry crop load management: the AI leaf-to-fruit method

Tech management

19 Feb 2026

A Michigan State University researcher promotes imaging sensors and AI to measure the leaf-to-fruit ratio in sweet cherries. From Washington State orchards to planar canopies, the approach helps optimize crop load, fruit size and quality using objective data-driven management.

Chile cherry exports 2025-2026: record shipments to China, stable prices

Markets

18 Feb 2026

Chile’s 2025-2026 cherry season closes with 112 million boxes exported, 87% shipped to China. Prices remain stable despite high supply levels. The United States and Southeast Asia show growth, while the industry faces mounting concerns over potential overproduction risks.

The evolution of the plastome and genetic diversity of sweet cherry in China

Breeding

18 Feb 2026

Study in China on 110 sweet cherry plastomes (Prunus avium) reveals three maternal lineages and a marked reduction in genetic diversity among modern cultivars. A clear plastid bottleneck emerges, with implications for breeding, traceability and climate resilience.

Sustainable management of bacterial canker defence in cherry trees

Crop protection

17 Feb 2026

An INIA study published in Plants explains why bacterial canker of cherry remains persistent in Chile. Researchers analyzed Pseudomonas syringae populations adapted to local conditions and more resistant to copper, supporting more integrated and sustainable management strategies.

Calcium-based treatments and MAP packaging improve the quality and shelf life of cherries 

Post-harvest​

17 Feb 2026

A study on ‘0900 Ziraat’ sweet cherries shows that combining 4% calcium chloride with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) reduces weight loss, respiration and decay, preserving organic acids, vitamin C and phenolic compounds during cold storage and extending overall shelf life.

The sterile insect technique for integrated control of Drosophila suzukii in cherry trees

Crop protection

17 Feb 2026

In Chile, the Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) moves into the pilot phase to control Drosophila suzukii in cherries. Led by the Fruit Development Foundation, the project aims to reduce pests, limit pesticide use and support exports with a sustainable and targeted approach.

Sweet cherry rootstocks for the Pacific Northwest

Rootstocks

16 Feb 2026

Technical guide to sweet cherry rootstocks in the Pacific Northwest, comparing Gisela, Krymsk, Mazzard, Mahaleb and Corette for vigor control, yield efficiency, planting density, disease tolerance and adaptation to Oregon and Washington conditions, with detailed tables and practi

A new biopesticide for controlling Drosophila suzukii

Crop protection

16 Feb 2026

Drosophila suzukii threatens soft fruit production in Africa. Research on Metarhizium anisopliae highlights the strong performance of isolate ICIPE 78, showing rapid mortality, horizontal transmission and fly attraction, offering sustainable pest control strategies.