New varieties and rootstocks: results of the CTIFL trial

12 Aug 2024
1797

On the afternoon of July 9th, at the CTIFL headquarters in La Tapy, the traditional technical presentation of cherries took place. This annual event is highly anticipated by cherry professionals, not only to learn about the progress of work on this species but also to exchange ideas with their counterparts.

This year, the event was also well-attended, and the experts in the field were pleased to share the results of their trials. The afternoon was divided into two parts: indoor lectures followed by a field visit.

Climatic Trends

The economic and climatic context for 2024 was discussed. It was noted that the weather conditions disrupted the schedule. The end of June marks the peak of the cherry season. The abundant precipitation this year has helped to replenish water reserves in the soil.

The satisfaction with the cold in the orchards was challenging but anticipated compared to 2023. We also noted that the price per kilogram did not hinder consumption, although we must remain vigilant in the face of imports. Aliénor Royer, an engineer at CTIFL, spoke about the pressure of pests on production quality.

Drosophila suzukii appeared earlier than usual, causing damage to crops. The harvest started later than in 2022 but finished earlier than in 2023.

Varietal News

Amandine Boubennec, Product Line Manager at CTIFL, presented the performance of some red and bicolor cherry varieties during the 2024 season. Regarding red cherries, Sweet Aryana, a self-fertile variety, performed well with few cracks.

Image 1: Sweet Aryana.

The variety ASF 0907TH, also self-fertile, was the most consistent, producing 17 tons per hectare. For bicolor cherries, the Glen Blush variety achieved an excellent result with 42 tons per hectare, equivalent to 30 kg per tree. The Rosalolam variety proved to be the best in consumer tests.

For more details, read the complete presentation by Amandine Boubennec (download the presentation here)

Experimentation on New Rootstocks

Trials have begun for the evaluation of semi-dwarfing and dwarfing rootstocks on a larger scale. Over time, the new plantations will allow us to evaluate their development under different soil and climate conditions and with different management methods. At the same time, the monitoring of plantations continues at the experimental stations to better characterize this material.

For more details, consult the complete presentation by Aliénor Royer (download the presentation here)

Source: CTIFL
Image: SL Fruit Service


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Cherry storage: tea polyphenols and nisin extend freshness up to 21 days

Post-harvest​

10 Sep 2025

A recent Chinese study shows that combining tea polyphenols and nisin preserves the quality of “Brooks” and “Summit” cherries for up to 21 days. The treatment delays senescence and spoilage, offering a natural, effective and eco-friendly postharvest solution.

India: 300 Million Consumers Ripe for Chilean Cherries

Markets

03 Jun 2025

With zero import tariffs, ideal seasonal windows, and a growing middle class of 300 million consumers, India represents a major opportunity for Chilean cherries. As logistics improve and awareness increases, it could become Chile’s next key market for premium fruit exports.

In evidenza

Tart cherry as a functional ingredient: scientific evidence and critical issues

Health

24 Feb 2026

A 2025 US review examines the nutraceutical properties of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.), highlighting its rich polyphenol, anthocyanin and flavonoid content. Evidence supports antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while gaps remain in bioavailability and processing impact.

South Africa pushes for varietal innovation, premium quality and diversification of cherry markets 

Markets

24 Feb 2026

South Africa’s cherry industry is expanding fast: acreage increased from 185 to 819 hectares, low-chill varieties reshaped production and exports reached 37%. The Western Cape leads output as new strategic opportunities emerge in China and Asian markets worldwide ahead.

Tag Popolari