Spain: Earlier cherry bloom due to unusually high temperatures

At this time, temperatures have already dropped and stabilised and they are back to normal levels for this time of the year, and although this week there is still a possible risk of frost, all circumstances point to a good harvest.

"The next few days will be decisive for the setting of the flowers and the load on the trees. At present, it looks like everything will go well, since the temperatures are normal and the bees are working without rest. This winter, there have been enough hours of cold compared to last year; that's why the flowering has also been more intense in a shorter period of time," he affirms.

This week will be crucial as well, since there is still some risk of frost, so producers are not lowering their guard. "Lower temperatures have been announced for this week, and for now the minimums stay between 3.5 and 5 degrees, depending on the production areas. If the temperature drops below these levels and there is frost, we would have a major problem."

The Cherry Sector Board, which brings Spain's main cherry production areas together, is holding meetings to try speeding up the opening of the Chinese market for Spanish cherries, which still need to comply with a specific export protocol to this country.

"Last week, we were in talks with the Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries to help move this process forward since, given the lack of a protocol, we are unable to meet the demand of importers in this Asian country, who have already shown their interest in our cherries," states David Manero.

In addition to China, Cerima is also working on the opening of other Asian markets, such as Thailand and South Korea; something that will help in the sale of their volumes, as they expect a significant growth of the production within the next 3 years.