Over the past two decades, exports of fresh cherries have grown rapidly, reaching 415,398 tonnes in the 2022-2023 season, with the Far East as the main destination, accounting for 92% of total exports (source: iQonsulting, 2023).
This increase is mainly due to the expansion of new orchards and better yields in existing orchards, especially for varieties such as Lapins and Santina. However, this growth can often compromise fruit quality, especially fruit size, which is a crucial factor in determining price and yield for growers.
To remain a leader in the industry, it is crucial to look for ways to improve the quality of the fruit demanded by the target markets. Growers have several management strategies to increase fruit size, including adjusting fruit load (through early bud or flower thinning), proper irrigation and fertilisation management, and the use of biostimulants and growth regulators during fruit development.
To better understand how these strategies work, it is important to understand the growth curve of the fruit. The cherry has a double sigmoid growth curve divided into three phases. The first phase is characterised by active cell division of the mesocarp (fruit flesh) and significantly influences the potential size of the fruit.
The second phase involves a slower growth of the mesocarp, while the third phase is characterised by the elongation of the cells of the mesocarp due to water supply, which makes proper irrigation management important.
Changes in fruit size are influenced by phytohormones, the concentration of which varies during development. For example, in the early stage, there are high levels of growth-related phytohormones such as auxins, cytokinins and gibberellins, while in the later stage, there is an increase in gibberellins and abscisic acid, which regulates ripening.
Fig.1: Dinamica di crescita e concentrazione di fitormoni durante lo sviluppo dei frutti.
Read the full article: Mundoagro
Images: Mundoagro
03 Mar 2026
In New Zealand and Australia, rain covers for cherries reduce cracking and boost size but alter orchard microclimate and firmness. Research focuses on humidity, calcium and export quality to support a more climate-resilient cherry export industry worldwide and sustainability.
Tech management Production Press review
23 Jan 2024
According to Michigan grower White, the cherry industry has become a battle. Not only because of price management, but also because of the climate, which has been unfavourable for years. There is also the federal administration, which has not been able to help the growers.
07 Aug 2026
A study evaluates 92 entomopathogenic nematode strains against Drosophila suzukii. Steinernema carpocapsae NC116 shows high efficacy against larvae, while sublethal effects on adults open new opportunities for integrated pest management in cherry production.
07 Aug 2026
The 2026 Northwest U.S. cherry season enters its final phase with over 16 million boxes shipped. Volumes remain below the May forecast and Rainier cherries are sharply down, while flavor, size and quality stay high as dark sweet cherries support the final push in August.
