Spotted Wing Drosophila, a well-known pest that infests ripe, ready-to-eat fruit, poses a significant threat to farmers because it is very difficult to control with standard pesticides. A new approach to tackling this pest involves manipulating the behavior of these insects by disguising healthy fruit as if it were infected with an unappealing pathogen.
By studying the specific odors emitted by infected fruit, researchers have identified the chemicals that repel the flies when applied to healthy fruit and are developing a slow-release device to disperse these fruity odors in the field, ensuring that they do not come into direct contact with the fruit. This method provides a new tool to help farmers protect their crops without relying exclusively on insecticides.
Last year's overlapping seasons and mass ripening collapsed the market for growers. Farmers can prepare for the weather, but how can they defend themselves against a flooded market and a dramatically short season?
Spanish greenhouse cherry volumes grow in week 17 of 2025, leading to lower prices but strong international demand, especially to the Middle East and Scandinavia, driven by premium packaging, ideal growing climate and exceptional fruit quality.
A FAO study in Uzbekistan analyzes the life cycle of apple, cherry and grape orchards, showing a negative carbon balance but critical issues in water use and eutrophication. Drip irrigation and solar energy improve sustainability, productivity and environmental impact.
Chile’s cherry industry has surged thanks to China, which absorbs 87% of exports. As the super cycle ends, the sector faces new challenges: tighter margins, rising competition and the urgent need to diversify markets to ensure long-term stability and growth.