Although cherry species have been imported since 1871, sweet cherry cultivation in China began in the 1980s, now reaching more than 230,000 hectares dedicated to this crop.
Considering the economic importance that cherry cultivation is gaining in China, the breeding sector is also actively working to release new cultivars with improved quality traits. Ten national institutions are collaborating to achieve this goal, with 60 new cultivars released and 300 selections under study.
The most important cultivar is 'Hongdeng', accounting for more than 40 percent of total cultivation in China. In addition, the new rootstocks released are Landing 2 and Jingchun 1. The new plantations are characterized by reduced canopy growth, which allows for increased orchard density.
Protected cultivation in tunnels and greenhouses is also well developed in China, facilitating cherry production even in regions with low spring temperatures.
In addition, protected cultivation also facilitates the application of innovative management techniques such as the fully automatic fertirrigation system. Thanks to these advancements, China will soon reap the (sweet) fruits of the work done.
Source: Kaichun Zhang, Cherries in China: germplasm, history, current trends, IX International Cherry Symposium
Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)
25 Jan 2024
A common alternative to fresh consumption is its employment in the production of a wide range of food items. Combining bioactive components and essential acids contained in cherry seeds, a positive repercussion in both economic and environmental terms is desirable.
11 Nov 2024
Pathogenicity tests showed that all isolated species could cause fruit infections, though with varying levels of aggressiveness. Among them, Diaporthe eres displayed the highest virulence followed by Fusarium incarnatum and Botryosphaeria dothidea.
18 Apr 2025
A Romanian study explores the link between sweet cherry cracking and fruit quality factors such as weight, firmness, and pH. Findings provide actionable insights for enhancing cultivar resistance and supporting cherry growers in challenging climates.
18 Apr 2025
A groundbreaking agrivoltaic pilot project in Germany installs lightweight solar panels over cherry orchards using existing weather protection systems—maximizing land use, preserving fruit yields and offering a replicable, sustainable model for smart farming across Europe.
