Photoassimilate Production and Distribution in Cherry

The two commercially important fruiting cherries in North America are Prunus cerasus L. (sour) and P. avium L. (sweet). Carbon partitioning between individual organs, reproductive and vegetative, is dependent upon photoassimilate supply from photosynthesis and storage carbohydrate, as well as the ability of the translocation system to deliver these resources to sinks Sink strength of individual organs varies with time of year, and age of the plant, as the sink demands and seasonal development pattern of the plant changes with time. Herein we will review assimilate supply and storage, seasonal partitioning patterns, and the impact that biotic and abiotic stress has on supply, partitioning, and control.