Cherry Training Systems

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.