What To Know
- Sweet cherries thrive in areas with cool winters and warm summers, and they need a specific number of “chill hours” (hours below 45°F) to break dormancy and produce fruit.
- The best time to plant cherry trees is in the early spring, before the buds break.
- Place the tree in the hole, making sure the graft union (the point where the rootstock and scion are joined) is above the soil line.
Growing your own sweet cherries can be a rewarding and delicious experience. Imagine biting into a juicy, sun-ripened cherry straight from your own backyard! But before you can savor that sweet taste of victory, you need to know how to grow these delectable treats. This guide will walk you through the steps of planting, nurturing, and harvesting your own cherry orchard, no matter your experience level.
Choosing the Right Cherry Variety
The first step to growing sweet cherries is choosing the right variety for your climate and growing conditions. Sweet cherries thrive in areas with cool winters and warm summers, and they need a specific number of “chill hours” (hours below 45°F) to break dormancy and produce fruit.
Here are some popular cherry varieties that you can consider:
- Bing: A classic sweet cherry with dark red skin and a rich, sweet flavor. It’s a self-fertile variety, meaning it can produce fruit on its own.
- Lapins: A self-fertile cherry with a sweet and tart flavor. It’s known for its early ripening and resistance to disease.
- Rainier: A beautiful cherry with a yellow skin and red blush. It has a sweet, juicy flavor and is self-fertile.
- Stella: A self-fertile cherry with a sweet, slightly tart flavor. It’s known for its large size and resistance to cracking.
Consider these factors when choosing your cherry variety:
- Chill Hours: Make sure the variety you choose requires a number of chill hours that is suitable for your climate.
- Pollination: Some cherry varieties are self-fertile, while others require cross-pollination with another variety.
- Ripening Time: Choose varieties that ripen at different times to extend your cherry season.
- Disease Resistance: Select varieties that are resistant to common cherry diseases.
Finding the Perfect Spot for Your Cherry Tree
Once you’ve chosen your cherry variety, it’s time to find the perfect spot for your tree. Sweet cherries need full sun (at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day) and well-drained soil. They also prefer a slightly acidic soil pH (6.0-6.5).
Here are some tips for choosing the right location:
- Avoid low-lying areas: Cherry trees are susceptible to frost damage, so avoid planting them in areas that are prone to frost pockets.
- Consider wind protection: Cherry trees can be damaged by strong winds. Plant them near a fence or other windbreak for protection.
- Make sure the soil drains well: Cherry trees don’t tolerate wet feet. If your soil is prone to waterlogging, amend it with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage.
Planting Your Cherry Tree
Once you have a suitable location, it’s time to plant your cherry tree. The best time to plant cherry trees is in the early spring, before the buds break. Here’s how to plant a cherry tree:
1. Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
2. Amend the soil: Mix in some compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Position the tree: Place the tree in the hole, making sure the graft union (the point where the rootstock and scion are joined) is above the soil line.
4. Backfill the hole: Gently backfill the hole with soil, making sure to firm it around the roots.
5. Water deeply: Water the tree thoroughly after planting.
Nurturing Your Cherry Tree
After planting, it’s important to provide your cherry tree with the care it needs to thrive. Here are some essential tips for nurturing your cherry tree:
- Water regularly: Water your cherry tree deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilize annually: Apply a balanced fertilizer in the spring, before new growth emerges.
- Prune regularly: Prune your cherry tree in the late winter or early spring to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
- Control pests and diseases: Keep an eye out for common cherry pests and diseases, and take steps to control them as needed.
The Sweet Reward: Harvesting Your Cherries
With proper care, your cherry tree will start to produce fruit in 3-5 years. You’ll know your cherries are ripe when they’re firm and have a deep red color. Here are some tips for harvesting your cherries:
- Pick cherries when they’re ripe: Don’t wait too long to pick your cherries, or they’ll become overripe and soft.
- Pick cherries by hand: Use your fingers to gently twist the cherries off the stems.
- Store cherries properly: Refrigerate your cherries in a plastic bag to keep them fresh.
A Sweet Finale: Enjoying Your Harvest
Growing your own sweet cherries is a rewarding experience that allows you to enjoy the freshest, most delicious fruit imaginable. From the first bloom to the final harvest, every step of the journey is filled with anticipation and delight. So, why not give it a try and create your own little cherry orchard?
What You Need to Learn
Q: How often should I water my cherry tree?
A: Water your cherry tree deeply once a week, or more often during hot, dry periods. Make sure the soil is moist but not soggy.
Q: What are some common cherry pests and diseases?
A: Some common cherry pests include aphids, leafrollers, and fruit flies. Common cherry diseases include brown rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot.
Q: How long does it take for a cherry tree to produce fruit?
A: Cherry trees typically start producing fruit in 3-5 years after planting.
Q: Can I grow cherry trees in containers?
A: Yes, you can grow cherry trees in containers, but they will need to be repotted every few years as they grow. Choose a dwarf cherry variety for best results.
Q: What is the best way to prune a cherry tree?
A: Prune your cherry tree in the late winter or early spring, before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches. You can also prune to shape the tree and encourage fruit production.
