80% of the world's cherry varieties originate from Summerland, Canada
“A vast majority of the cherry varieties grown across the world are Summerland varieties,” said Dr. Amrit Singh, a research scientist at the centre.
For decades, scientists have been cross-breeding varieties by pulling together the best traits to create a better quality cherry. Biologist Chris Pagliocchini said there is huge demand from international orchardists who want to grow Summerland cherries by obtaining the buds to grow their own trees.
Keith Carlson is the former president and owns more than 100 acres of cherry trees in Summerland.
“Eighty-five percent of my cherries go either to Europe or Asia,” Carlson said. “It’s very large demand right now and I don’t see that really dropping off in the future.”
The more that are commercially grown, the more money from royalties is funneled back into research.
source: globalnews.ca
