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.
06 Aug 2024
This line includes Biozyme TF, a natural plant growth regulator, a component of the 'Calibre Solution' strategy, which, together with Dropper 5% SC, a cytokinin-based growth regulator, generates an important synergy that explains the consistent results obtained with its use.
14 Oct 2025
A study from southern Spain compares two biostimulant strategies on sweet cherry trees, focusing on yield, fruit quality, and ripening in “Nimba” and “Red Pacific”. Results show clear economic benefits and sustainable options for cherry growers worldwide.
26 May 2026
A California field study shows how Brix and fruit skin firmness affect sweet cherry susceptibility to Drosophila suzukii. Cultivar differences, fruit color and ripening stage point to sharper integrated pest management decisions and lower infestation risk in California orchards.
26 May 2026
SAT La Rinconada cherries in Spain earn the Epigen Healthy Bite Regenerative Agriculture certification: 48 of 110 hectares focus on healthy sugars, more total amino acids, organic acids and antioxidant potential, while cutting water and nutrient use for European customers.
