This HortFACT summarises the results from years of evaluations undertaken on a number of new cherry varieties at the HortResearch Marlborough Research Centre. The trial began in 1985 in order to evaluate 57 cherry cultivars planted on two rootstocks (Mahaleb and Colt). Further cultivars have been added as the trial progressed. Many of the cultivars assessed in Marlborough originated from the West Coast of the USA and Canada. Some of the trial cultivars have been released for commercial use.

Here we present details of fruit and tree characteristics, plus photos of the fruit and tree shapes of many of the varieties.

CONTENTS

Table 1. Tree Characteristics : gives details of the tree vigour, shape, type of pruning required, bloom time, harvest period and crop load by variety on each of the two rootstocks assessed (Mahaleb and Colt). By clicking on the highlighted variety names, you can download an image showing the tree shape and structure.

Table 2. Fruit Characteristics : gives details of the skin colour, size, flavour, juice (brix level), flesh firmness, flesh colour, cracking, storage and overall impression by variety. By clicking on the highlighted variety names, you can download an image of the fruit, (pictures not available for all varieties).