Cultivar with different photosynthetic characteristics to improve sweet cherry yield

31 Oct 2024
1057

Cherry cultivation in China is particularly important in the northern and northeastern regions, where this species has become one of the most economically significant crops. A recent Chinese study examined the photosynthetic characteristics of various sweet cherry varieties cultivated on the Loess Plateau, a region with a semi-arid continental climate that presents unique environmental challenges. 

The study analyzed the net photosynthetic rate (Pn), water use efficiency (WUE), and transpiration rate (Tr), along with other ecological variables that influence the photosynthetic process in sweet cherry plants.

The results showed that sweet cherry photosynthesis generally follows a bimodal pattern, with a first peak in the early morning and a second in the late afternoon, interrupted by a midday reduction. 

This decrease is mainly due to stomatal mechanisms, as observed in the “Rainier” and “Summit” varieties. However, in some cases, as seen in other cultivars, the drop in photosynthesis is not associated with a reduction in stomatal opening but rather with decreased photosynthetic activity in the chloroplasts.

Image 1 - Location of the Loess Plateau and the study plot

Another important factor influencing the photosynthetic rate is water use efficiency. “Rainier” and “Summit” varieties demonstrated high water use efficiency, despite being grown in soils with lower water content than other varieties. This indicates that these cultivars are particularly efficient in utilizing available water, a key factor for their productivity in a semi-arid environment. 

Conversely, “Tieon” variety exhibited lower efficiency, suggesting that simply having water available is insufficient to ensure optimal photosynthesis. However, in general, water absorption from the roots and irrigation management practices are crucial for optimizing photosynthesis. In addition to water, leaf temperature and light intensity also play an important role. 

The study demonstrated that the use of plastic coverings (tunnel) has a significant effect on radiation intensity and ambient temperature. Therefore, proper orchard management should take microclimatic conditions into account; generally, an excessive leaf temperature reduces photosynthetic efficiency.

Image 2 - Principal component analysis was conducted on the photosynthetic characteristics of various cherry varieties

The study's results provide useful insights for improving sweet cherry orchard management in semi-arid regions like China’s Loess Plateau. Practices such as irrigation, appropriate use of plastic covers, and monitoring leaf temperature can help optimize the photosynthetic yield of various sweet cherry varieties. In particular, the “Rainier” variety emerged as one of the top performers under the study conditions, thanks to its ability to maintain high photosynthetic levels even in less favorable conditions.

In conclusion, the study highlighted how sweet cherry varieties respond differently to ecological and management variables, offering a scientific basis for selecting cultivars best suited for Loess Plateau cultivation and for developing more effective management strategies across different growing areas.

Photos: Muhao et al., 2024; SL Fruit Service

Source: Chen, M., Feng, S., Gao, M., Liu, M., Wang, K., Wang, J., Shangguan, Z. & Zhang, Y. (2024). The difference in the photosynthetic characteristics and soil moisture of different varieties of sweet cherry (Prunus avium L.). Agricultural Water Management, 302, 109002. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.agwat.2024.109002

Andrea Giovannini
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Germany is the third largest importer of cherries

Consumption Markets

09 May 2023

Germany is the third-largest importer of cherries in the world after China/Hong Kong and Russia. From 2010 to 2021, between 52 and 77 percent of the cherries consumed in Germany were imported, with the majority of imports originating in other EU member states.

USA: Court reinstates Staccato cherry patent, victory for AAFC

Varieties

26 Mar 2025

The US Court reinstated the Staccato cherry patent, overturning the previous decision. AAFC will now be able to defend its rights against the unauthorised sale of the 'Glory' variety. A key victory for intellectual property protection in the global fruit industry.

In evidenza

Jujuy leads the way: South America's first fresh cherries harvested in September

Production

07 Oct 2025

On September 30, the first fresh cherries of the season were harvested in Jujuy, Argentina. This historic milestone opens a new production window for export, thanks to advanced agronomic practices, ultra-early cherry varieties, and unique microclimate and ideal local conditions.

Corette rootstocks: the new frontier of modern high-density cherry growing

Rootstocks

07 Oct 2025

The new Corette rootstock series is reshaping cherry cultivation: rusticity, heat and drought resistance, and adaptability to high-density orchards. Cass, Crawford, and Lake offer earliness, fruit quality, yield, and sustainability for a truly competitive cherry future.

Tag Popolari