Many scientists believe that a number of the more commonly grown varieties are being sold under several different names. One of the best cherries grown in Turkey is 0900 Ziraat, also known as Aksehir Napoleon. The size and quality of this cherry is particularly impressive, taking into account the problems associated with cherry production in Turkey. The horticultural knowledge of growers is very low. Most have only a fifth-grade education and understand only as much horticulture as their fathers taught them.
Most orchards are in isolated rural areas with access only over poor roads.
Hydrocoolers are not available, so cherries may sit or travel under hot conditions for hours before being placed in a cold room. The potential profits from exported cherries may serve as a catalyst to improve production techniques. Modern processing plants are considering the purchase of hydrocoolers and sorting lines, and the use of modified atmosphere packaging. This same incentive may prompt growers to evaluate and modify their production techniques to increase the size and quality of their cherries to assure a solid export market. The volatile nature of this market was highlighted last year when a large European crop caused buyers to purchase cherries produced in Europe rather than Turkey.