The first experiences with cherry breeding at the VSUO in Holouvosy in the Czech Republic date back to the late 1960s. The main variety selected from this programme is Kordia, which in recent years has become one of the world's leading varieties in the medium-late ripening period, mainly due to its high fruit quality standards.
The primary objectives of the WSUO programme are cherry quality (size, texture and colour), resistance to cracking and rot, shelf life and plant productivity. MAS technologies are used in the breeding programme for the early selection of genotypes on several traits: self-fertility, spring frost resistance, drought and climate change tolerance and low chilling requirements.
WSUO, besides Kordia, has commercially propagated 28 cherry varieties. The best known are Early Korvik, Christiana, Felicita, Irena, Justyna, Kasandra, Tamara, Techlovan, Tim and Vanda.
Below is the report of Lubor Zelený, cherry breeding project manager at WSUO in Holouvosy, presented at the workshop on cherry variety innovation at Macfrut 2023.
21 May 2026
Warm spring conditions in Washington may advance cherry X-disease transmission. WSU reports C. reductus adults already present in May and highlights weed control, leafhopper monitoring and targeted preharvest spray strategies to limit vector pressure in commercial orchards.
27 Feb 2025
With increasing demands for longer shelf life, parameters such as firmness, colour and dehydration of the stalk are crucial for product acceptance in international markets.
03 Jun 2026
Pea protein combined with sour cherry phenols can improve solubility, emulsion stability and nutritional value. The study points to fresh opportunities for plant-based emulsions, functional beverages and innovative nutraceutical formulations for sustainable food markets.
03 Jun 2026
In 2026 Uzbek cherries show lower volumes down 20-40%, but stronger quality: 26+ mm fruit, high Brix and export prices up to USD 7.40/kg. Premium cultivars, cold chain discipline and MAP packaging support growth in Russia, the Middle East and Europe across premium markets.
