In a context marked by unstable climate, rising logistics costs and increasingly selective export markets, Chile is focusing on varietal innovation. Among the most closely watched new entries is Cheery Glow, developed by Bloom Fresh, which has already reached around 200 hectares planted in the country.
Cheery Glow (IFG Cher-Six) is an early-season variety with golden skin and a natural pink-red blush, covering 70% or more of the fruit surface. The coloration results from sun exposure, supported by an open canopy that improves light penetration.
The fruit is large, firm, and has a sugar content of 20–22 degrees Brix. Introduced to the Chinese market in mid-November last year, it received very positive feedback.
According to María José Castro, representative of Nueva Vid, Bloom Fresh’s authorized nursery in Chile, Cheery Glow adapts well to most growing areas between Coquimbo and Maule, including early zones where other varieties face greater challenges.
Its key strength is its low chill requirement: around 450 hours, compared to the 800–1,000 hours required by many traditional varieties. In a Chile where winters are becoming less predictable, this factor can help reduce production risk.
The average yield is 15 tons per hectare, with trees that come into production early. A fruit set of 15–20% supports good productivity, while long stems facilitate harvesting without direct handling of the fruit.
Cheery Glow can be harvested 5–7 days before Santina, and up to 10 days earlier under favorable conditions. Its high firmness allows storage for up to 60 days, a key factor for shipments to China and other distant markets.
The combination of earliness, post-harvest performance and golden appearance with blush is already attracting interest from buyers in China, Europe and the United States. For Chilean growers, Cheery Glow is positioning itself as a concrete response to new climatic and commercial challenges.
Source: producereport.com
Image source: FFP
22 Aug 2025
Little Cherry Disease (LCD) is damaging cherry orchards across Washington State, with growers reporting severe losses. Tree removals and bitter, undersized fruit are symptoms of this threat—comparable to citrus greening (HLB) in Florida’s citrus industry.
06 Nov 2025
The 2025-26 Chilean cherry season kicks off with an air shipment to New York. Crunchy, sweet, high-quality fruit sets the tone. Forever Fresh targets the US market to reduce reliance on China and strengthen winter exports with premium, carefully selected varieties.
14 May 2026
The Cereza del Jerte PDO is focusing on quality, traceability and new varieties to strengthen exports and its presence in global markets. After nearly 2,000 certified tonnes last season, the 2026 fruit promises excellent flavour, more visibility and higher certified volumes.
14 May 2026
Early cherries in Chile are entering a decisive phase: being first on the market is no longer enough. Growers need consistent quality, production stability, agronomic precision and targeted commercial strategies to turn volumes into value and compete in the Chinese market.
