The Apulian cherry sector is today in a clearly vulnerable position, characterised by a delay in varietal innovation and the presence of antiquated plants, whose product often does not fully reflect the needs of the current market.
The recent National Conference on the cherry tree in Sammichele di Bari highlighted the criticalities of the local cherry sector, while recognising the competitive potential of the area's cherries, capable of competing with more advanced markets such as that of Vignola, despite a significantly smaller cultivated surface.
The event marked a turning point for the entire supply chain, offering an opportunity for reflection and comparison between the various actors involved. Mayor Lorenzo Netti emphasised the strategic importance of the cherry as a symbol of the territory, not only economically but also culturally. This initiative, held in April in view of the next harvest, provided a space to evaluate the future path of the supply chain.
During the conference, several crucial issues emerged. Luca Fortunato highlighted the urgent need for varietal innovation, emphasising that it is no longer a choice, but an unavoidable necessity. He also mentioned varietal standardisation as a tool to ensure better product identification on the market.
At the same time, new cultivation strategies were discussed, including the use of covers to meet the challenges of climate change and ensure consistent product quality. Stefano Borraci emphasised the importance of investments in these technologies, while Massimiliano Del Core highlighted the importance of aggregation among producers to successfully face future challenges.
Donato Di Palma reiterated the importance of preserving the distinctive characteristics of native varieties to remain competitive in the markets, citing the Ferrovia variety as an example.
Finally, the debate also involved the political sphere, with Francesco Paolicelli announcing measures to incentivise varietal innovation and the use of covers in cherry cultivation, with the aim of increasing disease resistance and improving productivity. In summary, the conference was an important opportunity to outline the future of the cherry sector, focusing on varietal innovation, new cultivation strategies and the political support needed to meet the challenges of the sector.
Source: FoglieTv
Image: BariLive.it
03 Feb 2026
Which rootstocks to choose for cherry trees in dry climates? A study in Hungary compares MaxMa 14, GiSelA 6, and WeiGi 2, showing key differences in water stress response. Learn which rootstock ensures sustainable cherry growing under water-limited conditions.
26 Aug 2025
Northwest sweet cherries, now in a longer and abundant season, are rich in vitamins, antioxidants and flavor. Perfect for back-to-school snacks and creative recipes, they can be enjoyed fresh or preserved to bring taste and health benefits all year round.
27 Jul 2026
Etna PDO Cherry and the prized Mastrantonio variety enjoy a strong 2026 season, with high quality, firm fruit and harvests extending to late July. Higher-altitude orchards create new market opportunities, while growers face suzukii fruit fly, irrigation and grower unity.
27 Jul 2026
Washington State’s 2026 cherry harvest begins with a smaller crop, good fruit quality, encouraging yields and favorable prices. Mark Grassel examines harvest timing, nighttime picking, climatic risks, labor needs and the challenges shaping a promising season to date.
