The Scottish cherry season, which is claimed to be the latest in the northern hemisphere, coming after the US, Canada and England, is now underway according to leading grower, Blairgowrie-based McIntyre Fruit Ltd.
Using later-season varieties and polytunnels, the firm now has 18 ha of production of the crop which is sold through Berry Gardens. Grower Matthew McIntyre told Freshplaza, “From 2016 on it became a bit more difficult to get a good yield as we had underestimated how vigorous the plants would be. The trees which are now 4-5 years old have calmed down a bit now and are producing very good yields.”
He added, “We planted two new varieties this spring from German breeder Peter Stoppel. Poly tunnels and steel structures will be added, and the trees will be trained at a 45-degree angle to create a fruit wall. This makes pruning and picking easier, lowering costs. With the Stoppel varieties we hope to further extend the season by 2-3 weeks.”
Photo source: Wikimedia Commons