What To Know
- But did you know that to achieve a fruitful harvest, your Bing cherry tree needs a little help from a friend.
- Cross-pollination occurs when pollen from one cherry tree variety is transferred to the stigma of a flower on a different cherry variety.
- Use a small brush or cotton swab to collect pollen from the anthers of the pollinator tree flowers and gently apply it to the stigmas of the Bing cherry tree flowers.
Bing cherries, known for their deep red color and sweet, juicy flavor, are a beloved summer treat. But did you know that to achieve a fruitful harvest, your Bing cherry tree needs a little help from a friend? That’s where cross-pollination comes in. This article will guide you through the process of how to cross pollinate a Bing cherry tree, ensuring a plentiful crop of delicious cherries.
Understanding Cherry Tree Pollination
Cherry trees are self-incompatible, meaning they cannot pollinate themselves. They require pollen from a different cherry variety to produce fruit. This is where cross-pollination comes into play.
Choosing the Right Pollinator for Your Bing Cherry Tree
To successfully cross-pollinate your Bing cherry tree, you need to select a compatible pollinator variety. Here are a few excellent choices:
- Sweetheart: This variety is known for its high pollination compatibility with Bing cherries and produces a sweet, flavorful cherry.
- Rainier: Another popular choice, Rainier cherries are known for their bright red color and sweet, juicy flavor.
- Lapins: This variety is a reliable pollinator for Bing cherries and produces a medium-sized, dark red cherry.
The Science Behind Cross-Pollination
Cross-pollination occurs when pollen from one cherry tree variety is transferred to the stigma of a flower on a different cherry variety. This process is facilitated by wind, insects, or human intervention.
How to Cross Pollinate Your Bing Cherry Tree
Here’s a step-by-step guide to cross-pollinate your Bing cherry tree:
1. Select a compatible pollinator variety: Choose one of the varieties listed above or consult with your local nursery for recommendations based on your climate and growing conditions.
2. Plant the pollinator tree: Plant the pollinator tree within 50 feet of your Bing cherry tree. This ensures that the pollen can easily travel between the trees.
3. Time it right: Cherry trees bloom in the spring, typically between March and May, depending on your region. The best time for cross-pollination is during peak bloom, when both trees have a high concentration of flowers.
4. Encourage pollinators: Attracting pollinators like bees is crucial for successful cross-pollination. Plant pollinator-friendly flowers near your cherry trees and avoid using pesticides that harm bees.
5. Hand-pollination (optional): If you want to ensure maximum pollination success, you can manually transfer pollen from the pollinator tree to the Bing cherry tree. Use a small brush or cotton swab to collect pollen from the anthers of the pollinator tree flowers and gently apply it to the stigmas of the Bing cherry tree flowers.
Tips for Successful Cross-Pollination
- Plant your trees in a sunny location: Cherry trees thrive in full sun, which promotes healthy growth and abundant flowering.
- Provide adequate water and nutrients: Ensure your cherry trees receive sufficient water and nutrients to support strong growth and flowering.
- Prune your trees regularly: Pruning helps to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration, which encourages healthy growth and flowering.
- Protect your trees from pests and diseases: Monitor your cherry trees for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.
The Benefits of Cross-Pollination
Cross-pollination offers numerous benefits for your Bing cherry tree:
- Increased fruit production: Cross-pollination significantly increases the number of cherries your tree produces.
- Improved fruit quality: Cross-pollination results in larger, juicier, and more flavorful cherries.
- Enhanced disease resistance: Cross-pollination can introduce genetic diversity, making your cherry trees more resistant to diseases.
The Joy of Freshly Harvested Cherries
The effort you put into cross-pollinating your Bing cherry tree will be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of delicious cherries. Imagine the joy of picking fresh, ripe cherries straight from your own tree and enjoying their sweet, juicy flavor.
Beyond the Harvest: Enjoying Your Cherry Tree
Your Bing cherry tree will provide more than just a delicious harvest. Its beautiful blossoms add charm to your landscape in the spring, and its lush foliage provides shade and privacy throughout the summer.
Final Thoughts: A Symphony of Sweetness
Cross-pollinating your Bing cherry tree is a simple yet essential step towards ensuring a bountiful harvest of delicious cherries. By understanding the process and following these tips, you can enjoy the sweet rewards of this rewarding endeavor.
Information You Need to Know
Q: Can I cross-pollinate my Bing cherry tree with a different Bing cherry tree?
A: No, Bing cherry trees are self-incompatible and cannot be cross-pollinated with another Bing cherry tree. You need a compatible pollinator variety.
Q: How long does it take for a cherry tree to start producing fruit after cross-pollination?
A: Cherry trees typically start producing fruit 3-5 years after planting.
Q: Can I use a cherry tree from a different species to cross-pollinate my Bing cherry tree?
A: It’s best to use a cherry tree from the same species (Prunus avium) to ensure compatibility and successful pollination.
Q: What if I don’t have enough space to plant a pollinator tree?
A: If space is limited, you can try hand-pollination or consult a local nursery for recommendations on dwarf or semi-dwarf cherry varieties that are suitable for smaller spaces.
Q: What are some other cherry varieties that are compatible with Bing cherries?
A: In addition to the varieties mentioned earlier, other compatible pollinators for Bing cherries include Stella, Van, and Black Tartarian.
