Early Dessert cherry is a high-yielding, early-ripening variety developed by the Institute of Irrigated Horticulture of UAAN named after M.F. Sidorenko. Trees are medium-sized, reaching up to 3 meters in height, with compact, rounded crowns that can become an original accent on the plot with regular pruning. Fruit production begins as early as the 3rd-4th year after planting. Self-fertile, but for improved yield, it is recommended to plant it alongside other cherry varieties, such as Lyubskaya or Vstrecha. Fruits of the Early Dessert variety weigh 5-6 grams on average, have a flat-round shape, and feature thin skin of orange-red or yellowish-red color. Flesh is light reddish, tender, very juicy with a harmonious sweet-tart flavor. Berries ripen in mid-to-late June, making this variety one of the earliest. The cherry tolerates low temperatures well, possesses high resistance to major diseases, and moderate resistance to fungal infections. Fruits retain their quality when stored in a cool place for up to two weeks and are well-suited for transportation. For successful cultivation of Early Dessert, it is recommended to plant trees on sunny sites with carbonate, permeable soils and moderate moisture, avoiding drafts. Watering should be moderate, and shaping pruning of the crown is conducted in spring and autumn, after 4 years — no more than once every 4-5 years. During flowering, copper sulfate or Bordeaux mixture treatment may be applied as needed to protect against diseases. Berries of this variety are rich in vitamins C, A, B-group, folic acid, iron, and minerals, making them beneficial both fresh and processed — for compotes, jams, desserts, as well as for making liqueurs and wine.
