News about Andrea Giovannini

New technology for the accurate identification of the agent responsible for bacterial cancer in cherry trees

Crop protection

11 Mar 2026

A study from Chile validates an absolute qPCR assay targeting the syrB gene to quantify Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae in sweet cherry tissues. The method improves detection of bacterial canker compared with culture techniques and supports more precise disease management.

Valorizing cherry waste: phenolic stability and development of active packaging materials

Processed

10 Mar 2026

A study from Argentina shows that discarded sweet cherries can be transformed into freeze-dried cherry powder rich in phenolic compounds and incorporated into pectin-based edible films, creating active materials for food packaging with natural antioxidant properties.

Tart cherries and sleep regulation: biological mechanisms and clinical evidence

Health

06 Mar 2026

Tart cherries, rich in melatonin, tryptophan and polyphenols, may improve sleep and reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. A review of seven clinical studies analyzed effects on sleep duration, efficiency and biomarkers, with promising but not consistent results.

Climate variability is having negative effects on the phenology and physiopathology of sour cherries.

Tech management

05 Mar 2026

Climate variability in high-elevation areas of Utah is affecting sour cherry production, raising double fruit risk and challenging phenological models. The study defines the critical post-harvest window and assesses the reliability of leading bloom prediction systems.

Tart cherry as a functional ingredient: scientific evidence and critical issues

Health

24 Feb 2026

A 2025 US review examines the nutraceutical properties of sour cherry (Prunus cerasus L.), highlighting its rich polyphenol, anthocyanin and flavonoid content. Evidence supports antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, while gaps remain in bioavailability and processing impact.

S.L.E.C.I.: the innovative irrigation system that reduces water consumption while maintaining yield and quality in sweet cherry

Tech management

20 Feb 2026

A Bulgarian study compares the SLECI system with drip irrigation in sweet cherry orchards. Water use reduced up to 14 times with similar yields and higher irrigation water productivity. A sustainable solution for drought-prone areas with limited energy resources.

High-density cherry trees: Serbian research identifies the best rootstock–cultivar combinations

Planting systems

19 Feb 2026

A 13-year study in Čačak, Serbia, on a high-density sweet cherry orchard (1,250 trees/ha) comparing Mazzard and Colt rootstocks. Growth, yield, fruit quality and profitability were assessed on heavy, acidic soils without irrigation, highlighting long-term differences.

The evolution of the plastome and genetic diversity of sweet cherry in China

Breeding

18 Feb 2026

Study in China on 110 sweet cherry plastomes (Prunus avium) reveals three maternal lineages and a marked reduction in genetic diversity among modern cultivars. A clear plastid bottleneck emerges, with implications for breeding, traceability and climate resilience.

Calcium-based treatments and MAP packaging improve the quality and shelf life of cherries 

Post-harvest​

17 Feb 2026

A study on ‘0900 Ziraat’ sweet cherries shows that combining 4% calcium chloride with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) reduces weight loss, respiration and decay, preserving organic acids, vitamin C and phenolic compounds during cold storage and extending overall shelf life.

New solutions from China to combat black rot caused by Alternaria in sweet cherries 

Post-harvest​

11 Feb 2026

A Chinese study shows the effectiveness of 5-aminolevulinic acid hydrochloride against sweet cherry black rot, inhibiting Alternaria alternata and improving postharvest fruit quality. An innovative strategy for food safety and sustainable crop protection.