UNITED STATES. In just a few weeks, the global cherry community will converge in Richland, Washington, for the 10th International Cherry Symposium, scheduled from June 1 to 5, 2025. Organized by the International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS) Division Temperate Tree Fruits and Working Group Cherry Production, this five-day event will bring together scientists, growers, and industry professionals to explore the latest advancements in cherry production and foster collaboration. Set in the heart of one of the United States’ premier cherry-growing regions, the symposium promises to be a pivotal moment for the industry, blending cutting-edge research, practical workshops, and immersive orchard tours.
A Platform for Innovation
The symposium will serve as a global stage for sharing research and addressing key challenges in cherry cultivation. Hosted in Washington State, which produces over 60% of U.S. cherries, the event will feature presentations and discussions on topics such as sustainable orchard management, varietal development, and post-harvest technologies. With climate change impacting growing seasons and market demands evolving, the symposium will focus on solutions like low-chill cherry varieties that could expand production to new regions, enhancing global supply chains.
The agenda will include sessions led by horticultural experts, panel discussions with industry leaders, and workshops designed to translate research into practical strategies for growers. The event aims to bridge the gap between science and application, offering tools to improve yield, quality, and sustainability in cherry production.
Chilean Expertise in Focus: A Speaker’s Contribution
A highlight of the program will be the participation of a Chilean speaker, Dr. Marlene Ayala from Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, who will present on post-harvest quality for cherry exports. Chile, a leading exporter of fresh cherries, particularly to Asian markets, brings valuable expertise to the symposium. Dr. Ayala’s session will explore techniques for maintaining fruit quality during long-distance shipping, a critical factor for countries reliant on export markets. Her contribution will underscore Chile’s role in the global cherry industry and offer insights for growers seeking to optimize their operations.
Orchard Tours: Connecting Research to Practice
The symposium will offer participants the chance to visit commercial orchards in the Richland area, showcasing Washington’s advanced cherry production systems. These tours will highlight innovations such as precision agriculture, including drone-assisted monitoring and automated irrigation, which are transforming the industry. Attendees will see firsthand how research translates into practice, with demonstrations of high-density planting systems and pest management strategies. The tours will provide a tangible link to the symposium’s discussions, grounding scientific advancements in the realities of cherry cultivation.
A Global and Local Perspective
The 10th International Cherry Symposium will reflect the global nature of the cherry industry, with expected participation from countries like Chile, Australia, Spain, and China. Sessions will address universal challenges, such as labor shortages and pest management, while also exploring regional opportunities, like expanding export markets in Asia. The event will highlight Washington’s legacy as a cherry powerhouse, showcasing how local research supports the state’s dominance in U.S. production.
The symposium will also feature the Cherry Global Players session, bringing together industry leaders to discuss market trends and strategies. This collaborative platform will foster dialogue on how to navigate a competitive and dynamic global market.
Fostering Connections and Shaping the Future
Beyond its scientific focus, the symposium will create opportunities for networking and collaboration. Receptions and a gala dinner will allow participants to build partnerships and exchange ideas. Young researchers and students will have dedicated sessions to present their work, ensuring the next generation of cherry experts is empowered to contribute to the industry’s future.
As the event approaches, anticipation is building for a gathering that will shape the trajectory of cherry production. The ISHS plans to publish proceedings from the symposium, making the shared knowledge accessible to a wider audience. For now, the cherry community is preparing to come together in Richland, ready to explore innovations, celebrate their shared passion, and chart a sustainable path forward for this cherished fruit.
MORE INFO_ https://www.xishscherrysymposium.com/
