The Federation of Fruit Producers of Chile, Fedefruta, has warned that the country's cherry export forecast might be lower than previously projected.
A survey among cherry producers in different parts of the country revealed many producers were reporting notable fruit drop, the premature shedding of fruit from the tree before it becomes fully ripe.
Fedefruta decided to issue this warning so that the rest of the industry could adjust its plans to manage the export volume, which could now be reduced.
Experts from Fedefruta explained that, despite good flowering, good pollination, and favorable weather conditions, there is evidence of fruit drop, mainly of the Regina variety. The Santina variety, although earlier, is still dropping. The Royal Dawn and Lapins varieties have also been affected.
This fruit drop could be due to several factors: rootstock, area, microclimate, varietal issues, or agronomic management; any of which could be causing a natural load adjustment.
It's worth noting that one of the producers consulted said they had forecast producing 8,000kg of cherries in one of the early varieties, but that the harvest will be much smaller.
For more information: www.fedefruta.cl