Sour cherry breeding in Poland: insights from an ongoing evolution

01 Nov 2023
2870

An important challenge encountered in the cultivation of sour cherries in Poland is the detrimental impact of spring frosts on the flowers and flower blossoms. Additionally, certain diseases, including brown rot (Monilia spp.), cherry leaf spot (caused by Blumeriella jaapi), and bacterial cancer (Pseudomonas syringae), have a substantial impact on both the fruit's yield and quality.

Considering the issues associated with a shortage of fieldworkers, particularly during harvest season, the necessity to adjust to these numerous challenges becomes evident. This is most effectively accomplished by a beeding programme and a selection of new cultivars with features adapted to those required.

Firstly, it is essential a high acclimatation ability to the polish environmental conditions; this also entails a lower vulnerability to the main sour cherry diseases. Secondly, plants need to be adapted to mechanical harvesting and intensive cultivation systems. Finally, the introduction of new cultivars should prolong the harvesting season.

To date, the production of cultivated cherries is relatively conservative, as the highly productive and spring frost resistant Schattenmorelle accounts for more than 75% of the total production. The Agricultural University in Lublin developed cv. Nefris in 1997, while the Agricultural University in Poznan produced Agat, Ametyst, Dradem, and Diament as a result of the breeding programme implemented in Poland.

 Among the cultivars produced by the Institute of Horticultural and Breeding were Wilen, Wilga, Lucyna, Wanda, Koral, and Kolia. These new selections demonstrate the commitment of Polish research institutes to new solutions that can guarantee quality sour cherry production, even in challenging scenarios such as the one we are currently facing.

Fonte: http://2021.cherries.org.cn/replayEn.html

Melissa Venturi
University of Bologna (IT)


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Hot water treatments (HWT) as an alternative for sweet cherry storage and quality

Post-harvest​

28 Jun 2024

The study conducted by C. Aubert and colleagues from the Centre Technique Interprofessionnel des Fruits et Légumes (France) investigates the impact of hot water treatments (HWT) on the quality and preservation of sweet cherries, focusing on two cultivars: Balrine and Regina.

The revival of Italian cherries: Vignola leads, Puglia seeks a comeback

Specialties

24 Nov 2025

In Vignola, cherries are a cultural emblem and IGP-certified excellence. While Puglia struggles with outdated methods, the Emilia region leads the way. This comparison reveals strengths and gaps in Italy’s cherry sector, aiming for growth and recognition abroad.

In evidenza

California cherry growers are assessing the damage caused by the storm

Production

05 May 2026

In Fresno County, California, this week’s storm affected cherry and almond orchards, forcing growers to act quickly. Helicopters were used to dry cherry trees, while hail, wind and fungal disease risks are raising concern over crop quality and harvests this spring.

World Fresh is introducing five new varieties of Canadian cherries to the world

Varieties

05 May 2026

World Fresh Exports is introducing the new Canadian Sansia and Safirah dark sweet cherry series to global markets, bred by AAFC in Summerland and designed to extend the season with premium size, flavour, firmness, consistency and strong shipping performance.

Tag Popolari