The results of variety study, introduction and breeding of sweet cherries in the Samara Region

The 40-year results of variety study, introduction, and breeding of cherry cultivars in the Samara Region are presented. The aim of this study was to evaluate introduced and local cherry varieties and elite forms based on the most valuable agronomic and biological traits, and to identify those with potential for commercial production and further breeding use. When breeding sweet cherries in the Samara Region, it is necessary to take into account the differences in its natural conditions. Samara Luka and the central regions adjacent to its territory are most fully suitable for the cultivation of sweet cherries. When cultivating sweet cherries on the southern slopes, the growing season increases by 15–20 days, and in the cold period of winter, it is much milder. Many cherry varieties developed in the middle zone of horticulture are well suited for cultivation in the conditions of the Samara Region. The development of cherry cultivation on private plots and in commercial orchards in the Samara Region to supply the local population with domestic produce holds significant practical importance. Because of the preliminary variety trials, one cherry variety, Sokskie Zori, developed by Samara breeders, was submitted for state variety testing in 2024. Based on the conducted research, three cherry varieties (Nyusha, Olechka, and Liza) were included in the State Register of the Russia. Resistance to adverse abiotic and biotic environmental factors, high productivity, and good-tasting fruits characterizes these varieties. A total of 15 elite cherry forms were selected for primary variety trials.