For the first time in Greece, the new and imaginative pergola cherry tree training system is being presented. This system promises high yields, uniform and large-sized fruits, easy harvesting in favorable conditions, as well as the long-term maintenance of optimal tree vigor and efficiency.
A new linear cherry training system is being tested in several countries worldwide, with the participation of various agricultural enterprises, especially in cherry-producing countries of the southern hemisphere (Chile, New Zealand, South Africa, Australia), but also in a limited number of experimental plots in northern hemisphere countries (e.g., Netherlands, Hungary, etc.).
It is called Pergola (the word pergola is also used in Greek and means an outdoor structure for protection from the sun and wind) but in the main testing country, Chile, it is called Parron.
Its structure involves transferring the productive surface of the cherry tree to a height of about 1.80 m, using an appropriate support structure similar to that used for kiwi cultivation. In Chile, it has replaced (using the same support structures) many kiwi fields destroyed by the severe bacterial canker epidemic (Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae - PSA).
The system supports the following innovative aspects compared to what is known so far: full utilization of the field surface (1000 m² per hectare), as the entire productive surface of the trees is above ground, as well as vigor and quality production throughout the life of the trees (referred to as "forever young"), with frequent renewal of the fruit-bearing branches.
For further details, download the full report here
06 Jan 2026
The high production of cherries in Chile requires new storage strategies. A study evaluates the use of controlled atmosphere on different varieties, analysing the impact on quality, physiological disorders and post-harvest damage while awaiting the packaging process.
11 Sep 2024
The demand for Chilean cherries is high from the Chinese market, which receives over 91% of Chile’s cherry export volume. Post estimates that cherry production in marketing year (MY) 2024/25 will reach 500,000 metric tons (MT), an increase of 6.8% compared to MY2023/24.
03 Aug 2026
Chile’s cherry industry is entering a new phase focused on value. Scientific research, measurable quality, new varieties and advanced logistics will be essential to boost demand, reduce dependence on China and protect Chile’s leadership in competitive global markets.
03 Aug 2026
The Bing cherry, a symbol of Oregon and Washington State, was named after Ah Bing, a 19th-century Chinese orchard worker in Oregon, USA. A new picture book tells his story through agriculture, immigration, discrimination and an American folk legend rooted in history.
