Growers cite early varieties as key to market enlargement

摘要

Cherry producers in the Argentine region of Mendoza are looking to extend the export season through the planting of four new varieties. THE Mendoza Cherry Commission, together with its technical partners, is this year seeking to develop improved methods of production and new cherry varieties in order to boost fruit quality and bring forward the traditional start of the export season by two weeks. Ultimately, the diversification is hoped to facilitate increased access in new markets within Latin America and the Middle East. "Commission members are currently planting four new cherry varieties with the aim of further improving quality standards," explains Mariano Quires, coordinator of the Mendoza Cherry Commission. "The idea is to plant Brooks, Santina, Celeste and Chelan in early-producing regions in an attempt to bring forward the start of the export season to 15 October, rather than the traditional late-October start." The move towards diversification - Bing represents 90 per cent of Mendoza-growncherries - has also been partly driven by the need to offer consumers a wide range of cherry varieties throughout the season in the wake of increased planting and production of sweet cherries worldwide. While many consumers prefer Bing cherries, according to US-based research, Mendoza growers are recognising the potential to open up further markets with other varieties.