Davide Nari, Valentina Roera
Agrion – Foundation for Research, Innovation and Technological Development of Piedmontese Agriculture
The cherry tree is undergoing a period of major innovation across all components of its production process.
A true revolution in planting systems is underway; new varieties are increasingly being adopted, characterized by large size, sweet flesh, low acidity, and high firmness.
In addition, new materials are being developed that significantly extend the harvesting calendar by 15–20 days compared to current reference cultivars.
New low-vigor rootstocks are spreading, enabling the development of new training systems in wall form and, consequently, the adoption of new management techniques, including the use of precision machinery.
According to the European Union: Stone Fruit Annual report by the Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS) – USDA, the European cherry orchard area covers 165,000 hectares, with an upward trend over the last four years (figure 1).
The leading cherry-producing country is Poland, which produced approximately 200,000 tons in the 2023/24 season, followed by Spain with 110,000, Greece with 70,000, and Italy with 50,000 tons.
[...]
Want to know more? The full article is reserved for subscribers to the Cherry Times newsletter! Sign up for free to receive each new exclusive in-depth article directly in your inbox and stay up-to-date with quality advice and analysis. Don't miss this unique opportunity!
Sign up for free to the Cherry Times newsletter
08 Jul 2025
An innovative study in Campania used HRMAS-NMR spectroscopy to analyze three varieties of Bracigliano PGI cherries, identifying their chemical, nutraceutical, and compositional qualities. The results highlight the value of this traditional Italian product.
03 Dec 2024
The aim of the study conducted by the post-harvest group of the University Miguel Hernández (Orihuela, Spain) and the Valencian Cooperative Mas de Roc was to find out whether melatonin can be used as a control measure against late frost and cracking.
18 Jun 2026
France’s 2026 cherry production has been revised down after hail in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, weak demand and early Spanish competition. Prices remain under pressure while Europe expects a solid harvest, with Italy recovering and trends in Occitania and Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur.
18 Jun 2026
A Canadian study on Carmine Jewel sour cherries highlights how red and blue LEDs affect postharvest storage, increasing polyphenols, anthocyanins and vitamin C, improving fruit color and nutritional value for the fresh market, while weight loss remains a key factor to manage.
