Poland is one of the leading fruit producers, with a per capita production of 146 kg of fruit. Among the cultivated species, the production of sour cherries stands out, reaching 183 thousand tonnes in 2022, making it one of the largest producers in the world.
In fact, the sour cherry is widely cultivated in Poland due to the plant's excellent resistance to low winter temperatures and the suitability of the soil for this crop. Another interesting feature is the fruit's phenolic component, such as phenolic acids and flavonoids, which could counteract the harmful effects of free radicals, implicated in the development of diseases such as the cardiovascular ones.
However, the combination of labour shortage and high labour costs has necessitated a change in orchard structure and management techniques.
Elzbieta Rozpara
For example, orchards with historical cultivars are characterised by a low planting density (4 m between trees in the row), which is well suited to harvesting with trunk shakers. Modern plantations (1.2 m – 1.5 m between trees in the row), on the other hand, are better suited to harvesting with cherry harvester. Of the total product, most is processed, either into concentrated juice or frozen products, while only 9% is destined for fresh consumption.
The new research directions are towards the breeding of new varieties suitable for fresh consumption such, with sweeter and large fruits but not only: there is the need to conduct research on organic sour cherry production as well as on the study and elaboration of new processed products.
Source: http://2021.cherries.org.cn/replayEn.html
Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)
20 Nov 2025
Environmental stress and energy competition trigger cherry fruit drop. With AI-powered counting systems, producers can accurately estimate yields, optimize harvesting logistics, reduce waste, and strengthen their commercial negotiations in a global market.
11 Apr 2025
Researchers in China analyzed LOX genes in sweet cherries, uncovering how they impact aroma and fruit ripening. Discover how volatile compounds shape each cherry's unique fragrance and open exciting new frontiers in agriculture, plant biology, and food science innovation.
28 Nov 2025
A recent study from central Chile reveals that the combined activity of honey bees and wild insects significantly improves sweet cherry fruit set, highlighting the value of biodiversity and ecologically oriented farming practices for more resilient orchards in the region.
28 Nov 2025
In-depth report on the real production costs, profitability thresholds and export dynamics of cherry orchards in Chile, with case data from Ñuble, Biobío, Araucanía, Maule and Los Lagos. Strategic insights to reduce costs, boost yield and ensure long-term farm viability.
