Slow progress for cherries in Peru. The problem? Chilling requirement

Gerd Burmester, an agribusiness expert in Peru, recently investigated the development of cherry cultivation in the South American country. The results of his research reveal a current situation in which Peru is cautiously exploring the possibility of growing cherry trees, but faces significant challenges along the way.

Let us start with the main challenge: the hours of cold weather required for the proper development of cherry trees. This species requires an amount of cold during the winter period, with temperatures dropping below 7-8 degrees Celsius, but this requirement is not easily met on the Peruvian coast.

Despite some attempts at cultivation in around 10-15 farms, the results have not been satisfying, with seedlings reaching the flowering stage but then not producing fruit.

The main question that arises is whether the potential for cherry cultivation in Peru lies in the highlands. Gerd Burmester acknowledges that the highlands offer suitable temperatures, but points out that there are additional challenges.

Altitude and high radiation play a positive role, but frost is a significant obstacle. In some regions, such as the pampas of Junín, frosts can severely damage the plants, compromising production.