Cherry Training Systems vs ICBA AgriAI

Cherry growers around the world use many training systems, both supported and freestanding. This publication describes seven commercially successful systems: 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.

ICBA AgriAI brings the International Center for Biosaline Agriculture’s knowledge ecosystem to your phone: curated publications and resources, structured learning, and an Agri-AI assistant tuned for biosaline and dryland agriculture. What you can do Ask Agri-AI — Practical answers and explanations on salinity, water use, crops, and climate-smart options, grounded in ICBA’s knowledge base. Research explorer — Browse and discover ICBA research themes and outputs. Knowledge library — Find publications, briefs, and references; open items in context. E-learning — Follow courses and learning paths at your pace. News & events — Stay current with ICBA updates and activities. About ICBA — Mission, strategic framework, and partnerships—so you see how science connects to impact. Who it’s for Agronomists, extension staff, researchers, students, donors, and anyone working on salt-affected soils, water-scarce environments, and resilient food systems in arid regions. Languages English and Arabic interface support (where enabled in the app). Note Agri-AI provides informational support and does not replace professional agronomic judgment, local regulations, or field-specific diagnostics.