Pollination by drones: an alternative for cherry production
12 Mar 2025
The initiative aims to optimise fruit production and alleviate bee pollination difficulties at certain times of the year.
BioMagnet Ruby is an innovative and sustainable attract-and-kill solution designed to proactively combat both Drosophila suzukii and Rhagoletis cerasi.
The cherry, being a high-value fruit, faces constant threats that can compromise its quality and yield. Among the most concerning pests are Drosophila suzukii and Rhagoletis cerasi. In recent years, Drosophila suzukii, in particular, has caused significant damage due to its ability to infest healthy fruits, making control difficult and increasing reliance on chemical treatments that are economically and environmentally costly.
"Every season, cherry growers face a significant challenge against Drosophila suzukii. The rapid lifecycle and ability to attack healthy fruits make controlling it an ongoing struggle," says Marián Durá, Project Manager at Suterra.
A preventive and effective solution
To address these pests, Suterra has launched BioMagnet Ruby, an innovative and sustainable attract-and-kill solution that proactively combats both Drosophila suzukii (spotted-wing drosophila) and Rhagoletis cerasi (cherry fruit fly). Additionally, BioMagnet Ruby requires only one application per cherry crop cycle, and allows up to two applications for other red fruits, reducing fly populations before they cause irreversible crop damage.
"Thanks to the early intervention provided by BioMagnet Ruby, farmers can act before the pest becomes a serious issue, reducing insecticide use and protecting the crop more efficiently," says Marián Durá.
One of the main advantages of BioMagnet Ruby is its ease of deployment; as it requires no maintenance, it becomes an accessible and convenient solution for farmers. Additionally, it integrates well with integrated pest management strategies, complementing other sustainable practices and contributing to more efficient and environmentally friendly pest management.
"Growers who adopt BioMagnet Ruby not only succeed in reducing crop losses but also improve fruit quality, which is essential for accessing the most demanding markets," Durá adds.
Protecting crop profitability
The preventive protection provided by BioMagnet Ruby has proven to be a key tool in the production of superior-quality cherries. Its capability for early and efficient pest control helps reduce losses and increase profitability without compromising food safety or environmental sustainability.
It not only protects cherries but is also effective on other red fruit crops affected by Drosophila suzukii, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, currants, and blackberries, offering a comprehensive solution for growers.
"The future of cherry cultivation relies on innovative and sustainable solutions. BioMagnet Ruby represents a paradigm shift in crop protection, focusing on efficiency without compromising environmental or consumer safety," concludes Marián Durá.
In a context where modern agriculture seeks to balance productivity and sustainability, BioMagnet Ruby emerges as an ally for growers of cherries and red fruits. Its ability to tackle pests effectively, responsibly, and profitably makes it a cutting-edge solution redefining how we protect one of our land’s most precious fruits.
Valencia Fruits Editorial Team
