At our Lodi Blooms cherry orchard, the unpredictability of weather presents a significant challenge, especially when unexpected rainfall threatens our delicate cherries. In our latest efforts to safeguard our crops, not only did we deploy a helicopter to dry the cherries post-rain, but we also used an air fan sprayer to apply calcium chloride. This combination of techniques underscores our dedication to producing the highest quality fruit possible.
Why Calcium Chloride?
Calcium chloride (CaCl₂) application is a critical strategy for preventing rain-induced cracking in cherries. Cracking occurs because cherries absorb water during rain, which can lead to skin splitting. Applying CaCl₂ helps to fortify the cherries' skins against this absorption, effectively reducing the incidence of cracking. Research has shown that this treatment not only prevents cracking but also contributes to reducing postharvest decay. This decay often manifests as brown, soft spots on the fruit, which can render them unmarketable. The application of calcium chloride thus plays a dual role; it strengthens the cherries' resistance to water penetration and helps maintain their firmness and integrity even after harvesting.
Innovative Application Techniques
To ensure even and effective coverage, we utilized air fan sprayers, which is a technique that allows for precise application of treatments like calcium chloride. This method ensures that the entire canopy receives a uniform treatment, which is crucial for the effectiveness of the calcium chloride in preventing cracking.
The commitment to using such advanced methods stems from our goal to not only protect our crops from immediate threats like rain but also to enhance their postharvest quality. By minimizing damage and decay, we can ensure that the cherries you enjoy are not only delicious but are grown with the utmost care and advanced agricultural practices.
As we continue to face the challenges of nature, our dedication to innovation and quality remains steadfast. Thank you for supporting our journey and enjoying the cherries nurtured with expertise and a touch of science. We hope this insight into our methods enriches your appreciation of the care that goes into every cherry from our orchard.