Early start for Catalonia: good prices, but forecasts reveal less harvest for 2024

16 May 2024
1580

In Catalonia, the cherry harvest season commenced a few days back in the earliest regions. Initially, there were expectations for an early start to harvesting, but this didn't materialize due to a sudden drop in temperatures. Recent rainfall did cause some damage to early varieties being gathered, albeit not significantly.

“Our cherry campaign officially launched on April 8th, introducing varieties cultivated under plastic. Subsequently, on April 28th, we initiated the marketing of our first open-ground cherries,” shared David Manero, a key figure at Cerima Cherries.

“Compared to the previous year, we initiated the process a few days earlier, with last year's harvest commencing on May 4th. While we could have begun earlier, given the unusually warm spring until a fortnight ago, the abrupt temperature decline altered our plans," he explained.

“Recent days brought between 12 to 15 liters per square meter of precipitation to our production zones, potentially impacting certain varieties like Mimba, already in harvest mode. However, we anticipate this won't drastically affect our supply volumes, ensuring seamless service to our clientele,” assured David Manero.

Anticipations suggest a diminished cherry yield this year, as per the insights from producers and traders. “This season, we foresee a decrease in early cherry production. Normalcy in harvest is projected by the second or third week of May, albeit at levels lower than the preceding season,” he added.

“The season kickstarted favorably in terms of market prices. Despite primarily harvesting in May and June, our diverse variety offerings align well with the current market dynamics in Europe," highlighted David Manero.

Attribution: FreshPlaza
Image Source: Cerima Cherries


Cherry Times - Reserved Rights

What to read next

German study reveals how calcium chloride can solve the fight against cracking

Crop protection

27 Jun 2024

Calcium intervenes in the early stages of crack formation. When applied, it promotes the cross-linking of cell wall components, which in turn modulates enzyme activity. This results in a stronger cell wall.

New phytosanitary agreements: Northwest cherries establish export with India

Markets Press review

23 Oct 2023

The agreement allows shippers to demonstrate that they follow a seasonal method to keep pests and diseases out of cherry shipments. The new method will mean better quality on the shelves of shops in Indian cities.

In evidenza

New solutions from China to combat black rot caused by Alternaria in sweet cherries 

Post-harvest​

11 Feb 2026

A Chinese study shows the effectiveness of 5-aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride against sweet cherry black rot, inhibiting Alternaria alternata and improving postharvest fruit quality. An innovative strategy for food safety and sustainable crop protection.

Post-harvest sweet cherry management: pruning, irrigation and reserves

Tech management

11 Feb 2026

Post-harvest sweet cherry management is a key phase for reserve accumulation, flower bud differentiation and future yield. In Chile, summer pruning, irrigation, nutrition and stress control influence vegetative balance, fruit quality and long-term orchard performance.

Tag Popolari