News about Andrea Giovannini

The impact of root rot on sweet cherry tree metabolism and microbiome

Crop protection

31 Dec 2024

A study analyzed the effects of root rot on plant metabolism, soil physicochemical properties, and the composition of the root and rhizosphere microbiome. The results demonstrate that root rot is not merely an isolated disease but a condition that disrupts the entire system.

Sour cherry juice quality: a comparison between different packaging types

Quality

23 Dec 2024

A recent study analysed the quality of sour cherry juice packaged in glass and Tetra Pak, evaluating sensory and physico-chemical parameters. The aim was to provide useful information to consumers and ensure adequate quality standards.

Sour cherry metabolites are functional in antioxidant activity and combat oxidative stress

Quality

20 Dec 2024

A recent study analyzed four sour cherry cultivars, two dark-fleshed varieties, "Heimann R" and "Gorsemska," and two light-fleshed ones, "Montmorency" and "V70142", to determine differences in metabolite composition and antioxidant activity.

The choice of grafting time in cherry trees: benefits and results

Nurseries

17 Dec 2024

A study conducted in Romania analysed the influence of the grafting time on the quality and quantity of planting material in the cv. Kordia and Carmen on Prunus mahaleb rootstock in order to identify the most suitable grafting period in terms of quality and quantity of material.

Improving the quality of self-fertile “Sweet Heart” cherries through blossom thinning

Tech management

13 Dec 2024

In a recent study from India, researchers evaluated the efficacy of different chemical thinning agents applied during flowering, 80% of full flowering, on the cultivar ‘Sweet Heart’. The results showed a negative correlation between fruit number and quality.

Nitrogen management in stone fruit orchards

Tech management

10 Dec 2024

Nitrogen fertilisation affects important aspects of production, such as fruit quality. Moderate doses favour greater sweetness, texture and size of the fruit, while excessive doses can compromise fruit quality.

Predictions on sour cherry quality via an analysis of cultivars and climatic factors

Production

06 Dec 2024

A study analyzed 10 sour cherry cultivars focusing on varietal characteristics, climatic factors, and fruit and stone weight. These data highlight significant variability among the cultivars and underscore the importance of genetic and environmental factors.

A natural ally for skin health can be found in cherry stem extracts

Health

04 Dec 2024

A study characterized cherry stem extract identifying 146 chemical compounds. Flavonoids stood out, along with phenolic compounds, terpenoids, and organic acids. These compounds work to combat free radicals and oxidative processes, which are major contributors to skin aging.

Phenyllactic acid (PLA) treatment to improve cherry storage

Post-harvest​

28 Nov 2024

A Chinese study proposed a more sustainable approach using phenyllactic acid to extend the storage life of cherries. The results highlighted that a concentration of phenyllactic acid is effective in reducing the cherries respiration rate and in controlling oxygen.

Genomics: new insights for improving cherry agronomic traits

Breeding

27 Nov 2024

A recent study, involving collaboration between researchers from China and France, conducted an extensive analysis of genomic research findings on cherries. Among the traits examined, fruit size and weight are critical determinants of commercial quality.