Progress in development of the first 100% Chilean cherry varieties

As a result of the Cherry Genetic Improvement Program (PMG) of the Fruit Technology Consortium, to date there are 116 selections of cherries with promising characteristics. From these selections will come the first 100% Chilean cherry varieties. This program was born with the support of CORFO and the Catholic University of Chile.

Last week, in the demonstration field of the Fruit Technology Consortium at the San Vicente de Paul Agricultural School (EASV) in Coltauco (Chile), Dr. Marlene Ayala, the project director, presented the advances of the Cherry Genetic Improvement Program.

Also taking part in this activity were the representatives of the Consortium's member cherry exporters, and professionals from the Catholic University of Chile and the Association of Fruit Exporters of Chile (ASOEX), who examined orchards planted with the first and second selections of cherries.

In addition, the participants tasted the fruit, evaluating the color, crispness, sweetness, and acidity. All this, to select the varieties that will continue to be observed, to later become the first Chilean cherry varieties.

Sergio Maureira, Manager of the Fruit Technology Consortium, added that their destination markets, such as those in Asia, are very distant and therefore, having their own high-quality varieties with a long post-harvest life is very important.

Dr. Marlene Ayala specified that they are aiming to flatten the national production curve, advancing in the development of early and late varieties.