Despite adverse weather conditions this year due to the El Niño phenomenon, Bloom Fresh, a company resulting from the merger of SNFL and IFG, successfully demonstrated the earliness of their new low-chill cherry varieties. They organized an event in Tabalí, in the Coquimbo region, to showcase these varieties, which managed to fruit even without the usual cold conditions and winter rest management.
In the Westfalia orchard, after a four-year testing period, one of their varieties called Cheery Crunch was harvested in week 43, without any cold accumulation or covering, proving to be earlier than traditional varieties like Brooks.
Interestingly, in the Tabalí area, the Valle Arriba company managed to harvest the Brooks variety in week 41, while the rest of the region had expected the harvest in weeks 42 and 43.
As part of their commitment to low-chill varieties, Bloom Fresh is exploring new cultivation areas, such as Arica in northern Chile and even in Brazil, where they are seeking suitable locations for these varieties that require around 200 hours of cold. They are investing in "test blocks" in these regions to assess feasibility.
Read the full article: RedagrÍcola
Images: RedagrÍcola, IFG
08 Jul 2025
An innovative study in Campania used HRMAS-NMR spectroscopy to analyze three varieties of Bracigliano PGI cherries, identifying their chemical, nutraceutical, and compositional qualities. The results highlight the value of this traditional Italian product.
07 Nov 2024
Some researchers conducted a systematic review of the existing literature to investigate the impact of environmental factors, insect communities and on-farm management practices on cherry pollination.
23 Apr 2026
A Tasmanian research project examines how rain covers alter orchard microclimates, analysing impacts on cherry quality, yield and tree growth. Findings will help growers manage hotter summers, extreme rainfall events and the increasing challenges of climate change.
22 Apr 2026
International Plant Selection launches the ZIC club to exclusively manage Zaiger Genetics cherry varieties in Europe. France, Spain and Murcia are involved, as climate change accelerates the need for new cherry cultivars that are more resilient, productive and adaptable.
