The cultivation and breeding of sour cherries has a long tradition in Germany. The first breeding activities are associated with the work of M. Schmidt in Müncheberg and M. Zwitzscher in Cologne-Vogelsang. As a result, the cultivars 'Mailot', 'Cerella', 'Nabella', 'Successa', and 'Bonnie' were selected.
In a second breeding program by H. Jacob in Geisenheim, the two cultivars 'Gerema' and 'Geresa' were selected in 1993. In 1965, a third breeding program was started by B. Wolfram in Müncheberg, which was continued in Dresden-Pillnitz from 1971 to 2000. The success of this breeding work is documented by the cultivars 'Karneol', 'Korund', 'Topas', 'Safir', and 'Morina'.
DSince 2001, M. Schuster continued this program. Eight new cultivars have already been released since 2001, 'Jade', Achat', 'Spinell', 'Turmalin', 'Taurus', 'Rubellit', 'Jachim', and 'Boas'. Two new breeding clones are currently in multi-site testing and 87 clones are in stage II evaluation. The main breeding objectives are fruit quality and fertility, resistance to biotic and abiotic stresses and characteristics for mechanical harvesting of the fruits
Ripening time - JKI sour cherry cultivars in comparison to cultivars 'Ungarische Traubige', 'Morina', and 'Schattenmorelle'.
Mirko Schuster
Institute of Breeding Research on Fruit Crops, Julius Kühn-Institut, Dresden-Pillnitz (DE)
20 Jan 2026
China now absorbs 93% of Chile’s cherry exports, making them the country’s second most exported product after copper. Thanks to direct sea routes, improved logistics, and lower prices, Chile is boosting its position as a global leader in agri-food trade with China.
25 Jul 2025
A recent study tested the effectiveness of biopesticides and native microbial strains against brown rot caused by Monilinia laxa on cherry and plum. Promising results in pre-harvest phase, but limitations emerged during post-harvest at room temperature.
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The Jerte Valley cherry harvest starts with 18,000–20,000 tons expected, high quality and European exports from May. Awaiting China market opening in a season marked by promotion, automation and unstable logistics costs affecting growers and supply chains.
27 Apr 2026
Tasmania closes the 2025/26 cherry season with export values nearing $50 million, driven by strong Asian demand and higher prices. Hong Kong, China, and Taiwan lead growth, reinforcing the premium positioning of Tasmanian cherries globally.
