The production of sweet cherries in South Africa is a small but fast-growing industry; plantings have increased by 25% in just two years from 2017.
The bulk of South African cherries are sold to local markets, but with exports to China increasing, while the UK remains the major export market.
Cherries are very healthy fruit, rich in melatonin and antioxidants, but have a relatively short shelf life. Produced in the cold winter regions of South Africa, it is a labour-intensive fruit crop that must be handpicked and transported at 0.5℃.
In South Africa, only sweet cherries, (Prunus avium), are produced, but tart or sour cherries, Prunus cerasus, used in baking and confection...
In South Africa cherry farming is confined to specific areas due to the climatic requirements for this sensitive crop. Cherries need mild su...
About 55% of South African cherries are sold in South African stores and markets. About 22% is exported and less than 10% is processed....
Cherry trees can only be grown in certain areas in South Africa. They prefer cold winters and don’t like hot summers, wind or frost....