bings

Bings refers to Bing cherries, a widely grown cultivar of sweet cherry (Prunus avium) used primarily for fresh market consumption. The name is commonly applied to the fruit produced by trees of the Bing cultivar and to the fruit in markets described as Bing cherries.

Origin and naming

The Bing cherry was developed in the United States in the late 19th century by Ah Bing, a Chinese immigrant associated with cherry growing in the Pacific Northwest, particularly around Oregon. The cultivar quickly gained popularity for its large fruit and long shelf life, and the name “Bing” has remained closely tied to the fruit.

Description and characteristics

Bing cherries produce large to very large, heart- to oblong-shaped fruit with dark red to near-black skin when fully ripe. The flesh is firm, deep red, and very sweet with only moderate acidity. Fruit ripens in late spring to early summer in many temperate regions. The pits are medium to large relative to the fruit. The trees are vigorous and productive, and the fruit is prized for its uniform size and appealing flavor.

Cultivation and pollination

Bings prefer temperate climates with warm days and cool nights and well-drained soil. They typically require cross-pollination from other sweet cherry varieties for optimal yields, as they are not reliably self-fertile. They are susceptible to common cherry diseases such as brown rot and cherry leaf spot and can be affected by late frost during bloom, which can impact yields.

Uses and production

Bings are predominantly grown for fresh consumption, but they are also used in processing and marketing as high-quality cherries. They are a staple in major cherry-producing regions, including the Pacific Northwest of the United States, parts of California, and other temperate areas worldwide.