What To Know
- While it’s not as simple as planting a seed and waiting for a tree, growing Bing cherries from pits is a rewarding and achievable project for anyone with a little patience and a love for cherries.
- Each pit contains the potential for a new cherry tree, a miniature world waiting to be awakened.
- Simply place the pits in a moist paper towel or peat moss, seal them in a plastic bag, and store them in the refrigerator for at least 60 days.
Have you ever dreamt of biting into a juicy, sweet Bing cherry straight from your own backyard? It’s a delicious possibility, and you don’t need to be an expert gardener to make it happen. While it’s not as simple as planting a seed and waiting for a tree, growing Bing cherries from pits is a rewarding and achievable project for anyone with a little patience and a love for cherries. This guide will walk you through every step, from collecting those precious pits to nurturing your own cherry tree.
The Magic of Cherry Pits
Before we dive into the details, let’s talk about the magic of cherry pits. Each pit contains the potential for a new cherry tree, a miniature world waiting to be awakened. While you might think that simply planting a pit would guarantee a cherry tree, it’s not quite that straightforward. Cherry trees are a bit finicky, and there are a few key factors to consider for successful growth.
Step 1: Choosing the Perfect Pits
The journey begins with the right starting material. For the best chance of success, choose fresh, ripe Bing cherries from a local market or your own tree. Avoid pits from dried or processed cherries, as they’re less likely to germinate.
Step 2: Preparing the Pits for Planting
Once you’ve collected your pits, it’s time to prepare them for planting. Here’s how:
- Remove the pulp: Clean the pits thoroughly to remove any remaining fruit pulp. This will prevent mold and bacteria from forming.
- Stratification: Cherry pits need a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy and encourage germination. Simply place the pits in a moist paper towel or peat moss, seal them in a plastic bag, and store them in the refrigerator for at least 60 days. This mimics the natural winter conditions that the pits would experience.
Step 3: Planting Your Cherry Pits
After the stratification period, it’s time to plant your pits. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Potting mix: Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically designed for fruit trees.
- Small pots: Start with pots that are about 4-6 inches in diameter.
- Location: Choose a sunny spot with at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
To plant your pits:
1. Fill the pots with potting mix, leaving about an inch of space at the top.
2. Make a small hole in the center of each pot, about half an inch deep.
3. Carefully place a pit in each hole, ensuring the pointed end faces downwards.
4. Cover the pits with potting mix and gently water them.
Step 4: Nurturing Your Young Trees
Patience is key in the early stages of growth. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering. As your cherry seedlings emerge, you’ll need to provide them with the following:
- Sunlight: Ensure they receive ample sunlight.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for fruit trees, following the instructions on the package.
- Protection: Shielding your young trees from harsh winds and frost is essential.
Step 5: Transplanting Your Cherry Trees
Once your seedlings have grown to a height of about 12 inches, they’re ready for transplanting. Choose a permanent location that meets the following criteria:
- Full sun: At least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
- Well-drained soil: Cherry trees don’t tolerate soggy roots.
- Space: Allow ample space for your tree to grow, typically around 15-20 feet from other trees or structures.
To transplant your cherry tree:
1. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Gently remove the seedling from its pot, being careful not to disturb the roots.
3. Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root ball is level with the ground.
4. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down around the roots.
5. Water the tree thoroughly.
Step 6: Caring for Your Growing Cherry Tree
As your cherry tree matures, continue to provide it with the necessary care:
- Watering: Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer annually, following the instructions on the package.
- Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the health and productivity of your cherry tree. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Pest and disease control: Keep an eye out for common cherry pests and diseases, and take appropriate action to control them.
The Sweet Reward: Harvesting Your Cherries
With proper care, your cherry tree will start producing fruit within a few years. The exact time will vary depending on your climate and the variety of cherry tree you have. When the cherries are ripe, they’ll be a deep red color and will easily detach from the stem. Enjoy the fruits of your labor!
The Journey Continues: Beyond the First Harvest
Growing Bing cherries from pits is a long-term commitment, but one that will bring years of sweet rewards. As your tree matures, you’ll need to continue to provide it with the necessary care to ensure its health and productivity. Remember, the journey is just as rewarding as the destination.
A Final Word on Patience and Perseverance
Growing Bing cherries from pits is a rewarding journey, but it requires patience and perseverance. Don’t be discouraged if your first attempt doesn‘t result in a thriving tree. With a little practice and the right approach, you’ll be enjoying your own homegrown cherries in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does it take for a cherry tree grown from a pit to produce fruit?
A: It typically takes 3-5 years for a cherry tree grown from a pit to produce its first fruit. However, this can vary depending on the variety of cherry tree, the climate, and the care it receives.
Q: Can I grow a cherry tree from a pit indoors?
A: While it’s possible to start cherry tree seedlings indoors, they’ll need to be transplanted outdoors once they’ve reached a certain size. Cherry trees thrive in full sun and require ample space to grow, so they’re best suited for outdoor planting.
Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees?
A: Cherry trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, including aphids, cherry leaf spot, and powdery mildew. Regular inspections and timely treatment can help to prevent and control these problems.
Q: What are some tips for choosing a cherry tree variety?
A: When choosing a cherry tree variety, consider your climate, the amount of space you have available, and your preferences for sweetness and tartness. Some popular varieties include Bing, Rainier, and Sweetheart.
Q: Is it possible to grow a cherry tree from a pit that was frozen?
A: It’s unlikely that a cherry pit that was frozen will germinate. Freezing temperatures can damage the embryo inside the pit, making it unable to sprout.
