Today, cherry production remains among the most profitable agricultural activities, thanks to numerous product and process innovations introduced by research and extensively tested through experimentation and field experience.
Thanks to the availability of new varieties, agronomic and productive performance has significantly improved, as well as the quality of the harvested product in terms of size, firmness, and flavor.
The introduction of new rootstocks has made possible a true revolution in cherry orchard systems: compared to the recent past, it is now possible to establish new orchards with smaller trees that are easier to manage, enter production earlier, and deliver higher yields.
Modifications to the tree canopy, with the introduction of new training systems and pruning techniques, have also contributed to this positive evolution in cherry orchards.
Furthermore, to make production less exposed to certain major threats, passive protection systems have been introduced, such as rain covers and multifunctional coverings.
In this new Illustrated Guide, published in Italian by Vita in Campagna - Edizioni L'Informatore Agrario https://www.vitaincampagna.it/, readers will find practical information useful for the proper design and management of cherry orchards, from planting to harvesting, suitable for both hobbyists and professionals.
The information provided derives from long-term studies and research conducted nationally and internationally on sweet cherries.
Image source: SL Fruit Service
Stefano Lugli
21 Jul 2025
Alejandro García-Huidobro (Prize) and Antonio Walker (SNA) urge Chile’s cherry industry to boost cooperation and explore new markets to tackle export challenges. Quality, governance and strategic investment are key to success in the 2025/26 season.
26 Jan 2026
CHOICE project reveals the impact of multifunctional cherry covers on orchard microclimate and crop performance. The study, tested in Emilia-Romagna, offers a science-based approach developed by leading Italian universities for smarter cherry farming strategies.
12 Feb 2026
A University of Hannover study shows that Parka®, a fatty-acid-based cuticle supplement, does not reduce rain-induced cherry cracking. Trials on six cultivars found no effect on cuticle mass, elasticity or fruit water uptake under simulated rainfall conditions.
12 Feb 2026
A 25-year genetic data analysis from the Genome Database for Rosaceae identifies 16 QTL hotspots and 17 syntenic regions across Prunus species. The findings strengthen breeding strategies for peach, sweet cherry and almond, improving fruit quality, yield and disease resistance.
