Entwicklung einer modernen Bio-Tafelkirschenproduktion Erhebungsresultate 2004 - 2007

Summary

Currently the market demand for Swiss organic sweet cherries is far above the actual
production. However, organic sweet cherry production is under high pressure to
change the cultivation system and cultivars in order to meet the new requirements of
the market for a regular supply of faultless and big-sized fruit. Additionally there is a
necessity to for a more economical management. In this study we assessed the
agronomic and economic result of a modern organic sweet cherry orchard over the
first 4 cropping years. The orchard is equipped with modern cultivars like Kordia,
Regina etc. and a plastic cover to prevent rain-due cracking and Monilia disease.
Sideward’s an insect net is fitted to exclude cherry fly infestation. The results prove
that diseases and pests could be sufficiently controlled. Yields were regular, high and
economically valuable with cv. Merchant, Kordia and Regina. We conclude that with
well managed modern orchard systems there are appealing options to extend organic
sweet cherry production.