This week, fervent anticipation surrounds the arrival of the first greenhouse cherries from Spain at Van Ooijen Citrus, located in Ridderkerk, the Netherlands. Although in modest quantities, these delicacies will be distributed in twelve packages of 1.5 kg each, thus confirming their status as a genuine imperative, according to Lucien Ruiter.
Although the name may mislead, Van Ooijen Citrus has distinctly established itself as an authority in the cherry business. "In weeks 12 through 17, there is a shortage of cherries, which become virtually unavailable worldwide. The cherry season in the southern hemisphere came to an end five weeks ago. The greenhouse cherries provided to us by our Spanish partner come to fill this gap," Ruiter explains.
"However, these cherries are not for everyone. We market them only by order, favoring sales by the kilo over packaged sales. The price is set at 75 euros per kilo (30+). Despite the high cost, transportation costs amount to 20 euros per kilo, making it difficult to make a profit. However, we manage to meet the demand of some experts who are eagerly waiting for them," Lucien continues.
"The elevated location of our greenhouse allows our grower to keep the temperature under control, thus anticipating the flowering and fruiting process. At a time when cherries are rare in the market, this allows us to offer a unique product," Ruiter points out. However, he does not foresee a major expansion of greenhouse cherry cultivation in Spain, given its high expense.
Read the full article: Fresh Plaza
Image: Fresh Plaza
16 May 2025
Cherry growers face a crisis: overproduction, small sizes and poor quality threaten exports to China. Discipline, planning and targeted investments are now essential to produce premium fruit and recover competitiveness in global markets.
05 Sep 2024
District Judge Stanley Bastian has determined that the “Glory” cherries patented by Gordon Goodwin of Wenatchee, Wash, are no different from the “Staccato” trees developed by the Summerland Research and Development Centre of the Canadian government in British Columbia.
08 Apr 2026
A Chilean study evaluates chemical agents and application timing to improve sweet cherry bud break. Results show impacts on uniformity, flowering, and fruit set, offering practical strategies to address reduced winter chill under climate change conditions.
08 Apr 2026
A study conducted in Cadriano, Bologna, investigates shading nets on Sweet Saretta cherry trees, showing improved plant water status, reduced vapor pressure deficit and enhanced physiological efficiency, with direct effects on fruit growth processes and overall quality.
