Cherries are often considered a premium fruit, with most varieties commanding relatively high prices. Many growers in our country have also ventured into cherry cultivation. However, when cherries split, it significantly affects their quality and appearance, leading to reduced profits for growers. Let's explore the causes of cherry fruit splitting and preventive measures together.
Causes of Cherry Fruit Splitting
-
Varietal Factors: Growers can opt for varieties that are less prone to splitting, such as Tian Di Yi Hao, Sand Cherry, Black Pearl, and Yellow Honey.
-
Excessive Soil and Air Moisture: Control soil and air moisture levels before fruit ripening to prevent cell expansion and subsequent fruit splitting.
-
Large Temperature Fluctuations: Daytime sunlight causes cherry flesh to expand, while nighttime temperature drops lead to contraction, resulting in fruit splitting.
-
Nutrient Deficiency in Soil: Calcium, potassium, boron, and other mineral deficiencies in soil can weaken the cherry skin, making it susceptible to splitting.
Remedies for Cherry Fruit Splitting
-
Water Management: Maintain balanced soil moisture and air humidity levels to prevent rapid fluctuations, especially during cherry fruit enlargement.
-
Fertilization: Use a balanced combination of organic and biofertilizers. Apply potassium fertilizer before cherry fruit ripening and supplement with calcium, boron, zinc, and foliar feeding. Spraying calcium chloride solution every 7 days before harvest can reduce fruit splitting.
-
Pest and Disease Control: Strengthen pest and disease control measures throughout cherry growth stages, particularly during ripening.
-
Artificial Lighting: In case of overcast or rainy weather during ripening, use artificial lighting to increase fruit exposure to light, or lay aluminum polyester reflective film under the trees to enhance light exposure time.
In conclusion, there are several factors contributing to cherry fruit splitting. By addressing these factors and implementing preventive measures, growers can effectively mitigate the risk of fruit splitting and ensure better yields.
