Product Name: Tieton Cherry (Meizao Cherry)
Description:
Tieton is a premium early-maturing sweet cherry variety, developed by Washington State University from a cross of “Stella” and “Early Burlat”. Known in China as Meizao, this variety has become the most widely planted sweet cherry variety in the country and is recognized as the flagship of China’s domestic cherry industry.
Appearance:
The fruit is kidney-shaped to broad heart-shaped with a flat apex. Skin is pale yellow at the base, turning deep purple-red to violet-black when fully mature, with a thick waxy layer that gives it a stunning, glossy appearance. The fruit features short, thick stems that help maintain freshness and reduce post-harvest damage.
Flavor:
Exceptionally sweet and aromatic, with a well-balanced hint of tartness. Soluble solids content reaches 18.2%–21.2%, delivering a crisp, juicy bite with every cherry. The flesh is pale yellow, firm, and bursting with flavor.
Size:
Average fruit weight is 10.5–12.9 grams, with large fruit reaching 15–20 grams – making it one of the largest commercial cherry varieties available.
Storage & Shipping:
One of this variety’s greatest commercial advantages is its exceptional storage life: 25–30 days under refrigeration (0–2°C) with firmness of 11.2 kg/cm². This makes Tieton ideal for e-commerce and long-distance logistics.
Growing Advantages:
Early-bearing and productive. Requires cross-pollination with compatible varieties such as Rainier, Bing, Van, Lapins, or Sweetheart. Dwarf rootstocks (Gisela 6) are recommended for optimal productivity. Crack-resistant with a rate below 3%.
Harvest Season:
Early May (in Shandong) to early June (in Liaoning) – one of the earliest sweet cherries of the season, offering a significant first-to-market advantage