Cherry Training Systems
This publication describes the seven major pruning systems used in commercial cherry tree orchards in Oregon, Idaho, Washington and Michigan. Cherry growers around the world use many training systems, both supported and freestanding. This publication describes the commercially successful systems known as Kym Green Bush (KGB), Spanish Bush (SB), Steep Leader (SL), Super Slender Axe (SSA), Tall Spindle Axe (TSA), Upright Fruiting Offshoots (UFO), Upright Fruiting Offshoots “Y” Trellis (UFO-Y) and Vogel Central Leader (VCL), all of which can be achieved with a whip (vs. feathered) nursery tree. Choosing the right system depends on growing conditions, variety, rootstock, labor availability, and management skills. This training manual provides information needed to choose a training system for new plantings. It also provides important plant-spacing requirements and pruning guidelines through the first three years of a tree’s life. Oregon State Extension Service; Pacific Northwest Extension Publication - PNW 667; L. Long, G. Lang, S. Musacchi, and M.Whiting
Tree Fruit - Penn State
Web pages on Production & Harvesting, Cultivars & Rootstocks, Soil Fertility & Management, Pest & Diseases, Weed Management, Organic Production, Sustainable Agriculture, Personal Safety, and Business Management from Penn State Extension.
Great Cherries -MSU
Information from Michigan State University Extension's Fruit Area of expertise team on Cherries.
Growing Cherries in Virginia
Information on establishing and growing Cherries. Virginia Cooperative Extension Richard P. Marini, Extension Specialist, Horticulture, Virginia Tech.