Many people are drawn to the beauty of flowering cherry blossom, but few consider whether they getting any nutritional benefits from the blossom’s fruits. Eating cherries from a flowering cherry tree is not only a pleasure for the eye, but also for the palate; cherry fruits are delicious and are even healthy. A range of cherries, including sweet, sour and aromatic fruits, can provide a variety of flavors, depending on the tree.
Cherries are a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals and other antioxidants. The cherries are rich in anthocyanins and other polyphenols which make them a great source of anti-aging nutrients. Studies have shown that the anti-oxidants in cherries can help protect cells against free radical damage and also improve blood pressure, reduce inflammation and reduce cholesterol levels. This means that regular consumption of cherries can help reduce the risk of a range of diseases, including cancer.
However, it can be difficult to know if cherries from a flowering cherry tree are safe to consume since there is no way to tell if the pesticide levels are acceptable. Pesticide residue levels may vary from tree to tree, and even between varieties of cherry. The best way to ensure the safety of eating cherries from a flowering cherry tree is to buy organically grown fruits, as they are subject to strict control and are free of artificial fertilizers and pesticides.
It is also important to note that the flowers of a cherry tree may be attractive to bees and other pollinating insects. If this is the case, it is best to avoid eating cherries from a flowering cherry tree since there is a possibility of consuming harmful chemicals through these insects. Additionally, some parts of the fruit can be poisonous, so it is important to be careful when consuming any part of a cherry.
Ultimately, eating cherries from a flowering cherry tree is a great way to get a range of essential nutrients which can help improve overall health. The flowers may be attractive, but it is important to take the necessary safety precautions and to be aware of the potential risks.
Harvesting Cherries From a Flowering Cherry Tree
The best time to harvest cherries from a flowering cherry tree is when they are ripe. This is usually between mid-May and early July, depending on the type of tree. The best way to check for ripeness is to look for a soft red or yellow color, or the tell-tale ‘bruising’ they develop when they become soft. The stems should be firm, with no signs of yellowing or damage. If the cherries are still hard, they are not yet ripe.
Before harvesting, it is important to check for insects and to make sure that birds have not already eaten the fruit. The best way to do this is to cover the tree with a net and check for holes which could indicate that birds have beaded the fruit. Once the cherries have been harvested, it is important to store them properly, either in the refrigerator or in a cold dry place, as the fruits can spoil quickly.
When harvesting cherries from a flowering cherry tree, it is important to pick the ripe ones, as unripe cherries will not ripen even if they are picked. Additionally, it is important to be gentle as the branches can be brittle and easy to break. By taking all these precautions, it is possible to enjoy the delicious taste of freshly harvested cherries.
Health Benefits of Eating Cherries
Apart from their delicious taste, cherries are rich in a variety of nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Anthocyanins and polyphenols, which are found in cherries, have been linked to a range of health benefits. Studies have found that anthocyanins can help protect cells against free radical damage and improve blood pressure, reduce inflammation and reduce cholesterol levels.
Additionally, eating cherries can help lower the risk of certain types of cancer, including breast cancer, lung cancer and bladder cancer. This is possibly due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help to reduce oxidative stress and fight against cancer cells. Furthermore, cherries can help protect against neurodegenerative diseases, including dementia and Alzheimer’s, as they contain high levels of antioxidants.
Eating cherries can also help reduce the risk of heart disease, as they contain substances which can help to reduce cholesterol levels and reduce inflammation. The high levels of vitamin C, potassium and magnesium found in cherries can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke, as well. Regular consumption of cherries can also help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of developing a cold or other viruses.
Cherry Varieties
Cherries come in a variety of colors, shapes and sizes. The most common type of cherry is the Bing cherry, which is dark red and has a sweet yet tart taste. Other types of cherries include the Rainer, Rainier, Montmorency and the Lapin, which is a type of sour cherry. The Queen Stella cherry is the sweetest of all, with a fragrant, sugary flavor. The dwarf sour cherry is the smallest and has a rich, tart flavor.
Sweet cherries are best eaten raw, as they are rich in sugars. Sour cherries are often used in jams, baked goods and savory dishes, as they contain more acidity than sweet cherries. Aromatic cherries, such as the Queen Stella, are best enjoyed out of hand, as their flavor is delicate and can be lost when cooked. No matter which variety you choose, cherries are a delicious and nutritious snack.
Other Uses for Cherries
In addition to being eaten fresh, cherries can also be used in a variety of dishes and beverages. Sweet cherries can be used to make desserts such as pies, tarts and cakes, while sour cherries can be used in jams, jellies, sauces and savory dishes. Fresh cherries can also be used in smoothies and cocktails, or dried and used as a garnish for salads and yogurt.
Cherries can also be juiced, fermented and distilled for use in liqueurs and cocktails. Cherries are a popular ingredient in many liquors, such as vodka, cherry brandy, kirsch and maple liqueur. Additionally, cherry juice can be used to make syrups and cordials, a popular ingredient in many European drinks. Whatever way you choose to use cherries, the delicious taste and nutritional benefits will make them a worthwhile addition to your diet.
Preserving Cherries
Cherries can easily spoil, so it is important to preserve them properly if they are not going to be eaten right away. The easiest way to store cherries is to put them in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator, where they will keep for up to a week. Alternatively, they can be frozen and preserved for up to a year. To do this, spread the cherries out in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer the cherries to an airtight container and store in the freezer.
Cherries can also be preserved in jars, either using a traditional hot-water bath or a sous-vide machine. For hot-water bath canning, the cherries should be heated to a rolling boil in a pot of boiling water for three minutes before being transferred to clean, sterile jars. The cherries can then be sealed and processed in a boiling water bath for fifteen minutes. For sous-vide preservation, the cherries should be placed in a vacuum bag, sealed and then cooked in a temperature-controlled water bath for two hours.
Finally, cherries can also be dried and then stored in an airtight container. To do this, spread the cherries out in a single layer on a baking sheet and dehydrate them in the oven at a low temperature for one to two hours, or until they are completely dry. Once dried, they can be stored in an airtight container for several months.
Nutritional Value of Cherries
Cherries are an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber and antioxidants, making them a great addition to any diet. They are rich in vitamin C, providing about 17 percent of the daily recommended value for this vitamin. Additionally, cherries contain high amounts of vitamin A and E, as well as a range of B vitamins. In terms of minerals, cherries contain potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and iron.
Cherries are also a great source of fiber, providing about 3 grams per cup. Studies have shown that dietary fiber is essential for maintaining good digestive health and cholesterol levels. Additionally, cherries are a good source of antioxidants, including carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, which can help protect against free radical damage.
Overall, cherries are a nutritious and delicious addition to any diet. Not only are they rich in essential vitamins and minerals, but they are also a great source of dietary fiber and antioxidants. With all these health benefits, there’s no reason not to enjoy some cherries from a flowering cherry tree!
