The genes that determine the colour and size of cherries

Breeding

17 Apr 2026

A study on sweet cherry grown in Northern Greece examines transcription factors PaWRKY57 and PaNAC29, highlighting their key role in fruit growth, color development and in the molecular mechanisms regulating ripening in non-climacteric fruit species.

A study reveals that the rootstock-variety combination is key to increasing drought tolerance in cherry trees

Rootstocks

17 Apr 2026

CEAF research shows that rootstock and variety combinations influence drought tolerance in cherry trees in Chile, where rainfall is sharply declining. The study highlights strategies to improve water use efficiency and irrigation management in extreme climate conditions.

Genomics and cherries: the race is on in Jerte to develop new varieties better suited to the market

Breeding

16 Apr 2026

Genomics is accelerating cherry breeding in Spain’s Jerte Valley: Cicytex and local cooperatives launch a 2026-2030 project to identify new varieties faster, analysing 1,000 trees and 110 cultivars in one of Europe’s leading modern cherry-growing regions.

Sweet cherry pruning management in Moldova: combined effects of timing and techniques on yield and fruit quality

Tech management

16 Apr 2026

Cherry pruning in Moldova directly affects yield and fruit quality: summer pruning and renewal cuts improve size, productivity, and uniformity. Trials on varieties and rootstocks highlight effective strategies for managing modern intensive cherry orchards.

Spontaneously fermented cherry beer: six varieties, six approaches to flavour

Processed

16 Apr 2026

Spontaneous beer fermentation meets cherries: wild microbes, time, and fruit varieties shape structure, aroma, and balance. From Morello to Bing, each batch evolves uniquely, reflecting environment, natural fermentation processes, and microbial biodiversity.

Post-harvest deficit irrigation in ‘Santina’ cherry: Chile study results

Tech management

15 Apr 2026

A study from Universidad de Concepcion in Chile examines controlled deficit irrigation in post-harvest “Santina” cherry orchards, highlighting effects on plant physiology, yield, and soil microbiota without significant productivity losses and improving water use efficiency.

Chile is promoting its frozen fruit: blueberries are leading the way, whilst cherries are gaining ground

Processed

15 Apr 2026

Chile’s frozen fruit sector is expanding rapidly, with +26% in volume and +30% in value in 2024 and continued growth in 2025. Blueberries dominate exports, while cherries and raspberries gain momentum thanks to innovation, modern facilities and shifting global demand.

China is placing a strong emphasis on the production of extra-early cherries

Retail

14 Apr 2026

Exclusively for Cherry Times readers, a photo report on the first ‘Made in China’ cherries appearing in the Asian giant’s supermarkets in week 15 (the second week of April).

Cherry cultivation in Uzbekistan has a minimal environmental impact

Tech management

14 Apr 2026

A FAO study in Uzbekistan analyzes the life cycle of apple, cherry and grape orchards, showing a negative carbon balance but critical issues in water use and eutrophication. Drip irrigation and solar energy improve sustainability, productivity and environmental impact.

Seminar on early-season cherries: Mendoza showcases its potential and paves the way for a more competitive sector

Events

14 Apr 2026

Mendoza strengthens its position in the early cherry market through advanced production strategies, agronomic innovation and public-private collaboration. The international seminar highlights concrete opportunities to improve efficiency, quality and global competitiveness.