Sweet Aryana: how and when to harvest to maximise quality

25 Nov 2024
1254

Sweet Aryana is a self-fertile cherry variety, high-yielding and early-maturing, introduced to the market by growers aiming to harvest in the initial window, betting on better prices in the Chinese market. However, it has been reported that many growers are harvesting too early, failing to meet quality standards.

According to Fernanda Álvarez, head of development and corporate control at ANA CHILE®—the licensed holder of this variety—“it is not yet the right time.” She emphasizes that “we have evidence that the harvest opportunity for Sweet Aryana begins at color 3.8 mahogany red. At this stage, the balance between soluble solids and acidity is optimal, as well as the firmness, which increases over time with a higher sugar content.”

This variety, positioned as one of the alternatives for early production areas, with years of good chill hours accumulation and a spring with suitable temperatures, can be harvested 5-10 days earlier than Santina.

According to experts at ANA CHILE®, the harvest criteria are color and Brix levels, with optimal harvesting starting no earlier than color 3.8, as per the UC Cherry Color and Size Chart, 2023 (Post-Harvest Laboratory of Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile).

They also recommend a minimum of 19°Brix for sea shipments and a minimum of 21°Brix for air shipments. “It is recommended not to harvest with colors below the suggested levels to achieve an adequate sugar-acidity ratio,” concludes Álvarez.

“It is recommended not to harvest with colors below the suggested levels to achieve an adequate sugar-acidity ratio,” concludes Álvarez.

Source: Redagrícola
Images: ANA Chile; SL Fruit Service


Cherry Times - All rights reserved

What to read next

Online the program and registration for the 10th Berry Technical Day of the Mach Foundation

Events

12 Mar 2024

E. Mach Foundation organises the 10th technical day on small fruits with the latest updates on Drosophila suzukii, strawberry and blueberry cultivation. The event can be attended in person or via live streaming: registration is now open online.

All cherries are not the same: Sainsbury's marketing lesson

Consumption Retail

06 Jun 2023

In large retail outlets, where sales are made on a free service basis, the label has a fundamental function in communicating the product to the consumer. The Sainsbury's label is an interesting example of clear and comprehensive communication.

In evidenza

Hydrocooling and thyme essential oil: a new strategy to improve sweet cherry shelf life

Post-harvest​

08 Jul 2025

A scientific study from Shandong, China, evaluated a postharvest treatment for “Tieton” cherries using hydrocooling and thyme essential oil. The method reduces decay and fungal pathogens, extends shelf life to 12 days, and maintains flavor, firmness, and nutritional properties.

Bracigliano PGI cherries: the HRMAS-NMR study enhancing a Campanian excellence

Quality

08 Jul 2025

An innovative study in Campania used HRMAS-NMR spectroscopy to analyze three varieties of Bracigliano PGI cherries, identifying their chemical, nutraceutical, and compositional qualities. The results highlight the value of this traditional Italian product.

Tag Popolari