Cherry cultivation has traditionally been limited to cool climates with long winters due to its need for chill hours. With global warming and milder winters, many cherry growers face challenges in meeting these chill requirements.
Bloom Fresh has developed low-chill cherry varieties to address these issues. According to Josep Estiarte, CEO of Bloom Fresh, “Our low-chill cherry varieties were created in response to the growing concern about climate change and its impact on traditional cherry-growing regions.”
Traditional cherry varieties require 800 to 1,000 chill hours, with temperatures dropping below 7.2°C (45°F), to break dormancy and produce fruit. Rising global temperatures have made it harder for many regions to provide these hours, threatening cherry production.
Estiarte explained, “Most traditional cherries need a minimum of 800 chill hours, but our low-chill varieties can produce with less than half, opening up opportunities in milder climates.”
Low-chill varieties offer a prolonged growing season and increased yields of 20-30% compared to traditional types. This allows farmers to better plan and take advantage of an extended market window.
Low-chill cherries also support sustainability by enabling growth closer to consumer markets, reducing the need for long-distance transport and supporting local economies.
As climate change continues to impact agriculture, low-chill varieties are expected to play a critical role in the future of cherry cultivation, offering a long-term solution to adapt to changing climates. Bloom Fresh plans to keep innovating and expanding production with a focus on sustainability and market demand.
Read full article: iGroNews
11 Jul 2024
Last year's overlapping seasons and mass ripening collapsed the market for growers. Farmers can prepare for the weather, but how can they defend themselves against a flooded market and a dramatically short season?
14 Oct 2024
The sixth Global Cherry Summit will be held on April 22, 2025, at the Monticello Conference Center in San Francisco de Mostazal, Chile. The 2025 event marks a milestone in the history of the meeting with an expanded format and demand for participation growing.
31 Mar 2026
A Canadian study explores how drip and micro-sprinkler irrigation interact with compost and mulching in cherry orchards. Findings highlight impacts on soil moisture, tree growth and yield, providing guidance to manage water stress and improve productivity.
31 Mar 2026
Chilean cherry imports in Argentina hit 1,273 tons, setting a new record. Amid Chilean oversupply and steady premium demand, the market absorbs higher volumes without price collapse, raising questions about future balance and competition in the sector.
