Stefano Lugli - SL Fruit Service (IT)
Chair of Cherry Times technical-scientific committee
The cultivar (cv) Royal Helen* produced by a young producer from the province of Modena (IT) was awarded the title of 'Most Beautiful Cherry in Italy' 2023. Congratulations to Riccardo Bergonzini. The jury of the competition that rewards Italian excellence every year during an initiative now in its XXIV edition, supported by teams of renowned chefs and qualified experts of this fruit of paradise, decreed the Californian maiden as the most charming of cherries, but not the tastiest.
IMAGE 1: Classification of the national 'Cherries of Italy' competition 2023
The fine palates of the commission decided that the award for the best cherry should go to an elderly lady from Campania, now at the end of her career, the variety Spernocchia.
IMAGE 2: Spernocchia
Old hen makes good stock? Wisdom comes with age? It depends on the point of view. I share a thought by Oscar Whild that seems pertinent: With age comes wisdom, but sometimes age comes alone.
Royal Helen's value
IMAGE 3: Royal Helen*
A pragmatic view, supported by experimental experience and direct observations in orchards, leads us to say that Royal Helen* should rightfully be included in the top ten of the new late season cherry varieties. For these three reasons: high aesthetic standards, excellent cherry quality and high production performance.
IMAGE 4: Main features of Royal Helen*
The varieties of the Royal® series, the Californian cherries of Zaiger Genetics, were presented to the general public four years ago at the International Cherry Symposium in Vignola (IT). Among them is the cultivar Royal Helen*.
Links for further information:
17 Oct 2024
During dormancy and leaf fall there are some points to consider that are very important for the productivity of the orchards. Productivity that begins with a correct entry into “Recess or Dormancy” of the plants. Stage that is key and relevant to achieve full productive potential
13 Jun 2025
A study in Puglia and Veneto shows how intensive farming and conventional orchard practices harm wild pollinators, reducing cherry yield and quality. Organic management proves to be a promising alternative in simplified agricultural landscapes today.
13 Oct 2026
A study of 125 wild cherry trees in western Poland reveals how temperature and rainfall influence annual growth rings. Analysis of five populations highlights the importance of March weather, July temperatures and habitats in shaping tree growth and climate responses.
13 Oct 2026
US fresh cherry exports are forecast to fall to 62,000 tonnes in 2026/27 as frost damage cuts total output to 317,200 tonnes. California's early harvest contrasts with losses in the Pacific Northwest, reshaping production and export prospects. Asian markets remain key.
