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.
12 Mar 2024
E. Mach Foundation organises the 10th technical day on small fruits with the latest updates on Drosophila suzukii, strawberry and blueberry cultivation. The event can be attended in person or via live streaming: registration is now open online.
15 Apr 2025
Los Antiguos Valley cherries receive Designation of Origin: a major step for producers and regional identity, with export benefits, brand protection, enhanced product value and stronger positioning in international markets.
25 May 2026
In Massimo Biondi’s biodynamic cherry orchard near Cesena, cover crops, microbiota and organic matter improve fertility, resilience and water management. Sweet varieties on Gisela 6 target yields between 80 and 100 quintals per hectare, showing living soil value in orchards.
25 May 2026
Chile’s cherry logistics to China face pressure after a 2025-2026 season with above 445,000 tonnes exported and lower-than-expected returns. At the Global Cherry Summit, Frutas de Chile highlights efficiency, cold chain and reliable transit timing for Cherry Express services.
