The main varieties planted in Ovalle are Brooks, Nimba, and other early-ripening varieties. Thanks to the favorable winter climate conditions and the new orchards coming into production, it is expected that Ovalle's cherry production for the 2025/26 season will exceed 2,000 tons, with the first batch of shipments starting to be air-exported to the Chinese market in the 42nd week, in sync with the Patagonian cherries from Argentina.
Agricultural consultant for Ovalle, Jorge Astudillo, is optimistic about this season's production, noting that this year's cherry blossoms have opened 5 days earlier than last year, which is very close to the normal situation in Ovalle. Early-ripening varieties will begin to be harvested from October 20-22, mainly Brooks, Royal Dawn, Nimba, and Santina.
A wave of cherry planting enthusiasm appeared in the region 5 years ago, and this year, large areas of new orchards have come into production. The orchards currently in the fruit-setting period cover an area of 200-300 hectares, accounting for 50-60% of the local orchard area. Some orchards have just started harvesting, while others are in full fruiting. The total cherry production is expected to be around 2,000 tons, with the exact number still dependent on the late-ripening varieties. Based on the current situation, the production is at least double the 1,000 tons from last year.
Astudillo emphasized that the cherries from last year's first batch air-exported to China were produced in greenhouses in central Chile, with relatively low fruit hardness. The cherries grown in the open in Ovalle naturally mature, are larger, have a vibrant color, firm flesh, and a crisp, refreshing taste. The expected higher opening market price for this season is a positive signal for the market.