Introduction
Growing a bing cherry tree from seed is a very rewarding and achievable project for anyone with a green thumb. Bing cherries are a type of sweet-tart cherry that are native to the Northwest US, and when grown from seed, the resulting tree will produce cherries for many years to come. As a home-gardener, there are some important details to be aware of when attempting to grow a bing cherry tree from seed, such as the right location, soil type, and potential pests.
Soil Type
Successfully growing a bing cherry tree from seed requires the right soil type. The optimal soil type has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0, good drainage and is rich in organic matter. Any soil type can be adjusted by doing some overall soil amendments and adding compost. The soil amendment should contain manure, phosphorus, sulfur and other nutrients combined with sand to improve drainage. Additionally, it’s important to test soil pH levels to get an accurate gauge of your soil’s health before planting the bing cherry tree seedlings.
Location
Bing cherry trees require ample sunlight to survive and produce fruit – a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight per day is recommended. In addition, be sure to select a location with room for growth. After a few years the tree should reach about 10-15 feet in height, and the spread of the canopy will be about 8-10 feet wide. If you’re growing a bing cherry tree from seed, it’s important to choose a spot that won’t conflict with over-head wires or other obstacles.
Pollination
In order for the bing cherry tree to set fruit, it requires pollination. Pollination occurs when two compatible cherry trees are planted within close proximity (about 25 feet away) of each other. It’s also a good idea to plant a few different varieties of bing cherries in order to increase the chances of successful pollination. There are a variety of pollinators, such as bees and other insects, that help to facilitate the process.
Pests
Like with many other fruit trees, bing cherry trees are prone to pests and disease. The most common insect pests of bing cherry trees are aphids, spider mites, cherry fruit flies, tentiform leaf miners, and mealybugs. Additionally, diseases to watch out for include brown rot, bacterial canker, cherry scab and powdery mildew. To minimize these risks they should be monitored regularly, and any pests or diseases should be promptly addressed with an organic solution.
Pruning
Regular pruning is an important part of helping a bing cherry tree to reach its full potential and produce good-quality fruits. Pruning should be done once the tree is established and the first flush of flowering is finished. Pruning in this manner will help encourage health and vigor by removing diseased, dead, or crossing branches to increase air flow and light.
Harvesting
When the cherries are fully ripe, usually in the later summer months, you can harvest them. The cherries should have a deep red color with a yellow blush, and will also be slightly soft to the touch. During harvest, wear long sleeves and gloves to avoid being pricked by the thorns on the branches. After they are harvested, they should be stored in a cool, dry place until they will be consumed.
Propagation
Propagating bing cherries is a simple process that can lead to years of healthy fruit production. Seeds can be collected from ripe cherries and should be planted outdoors in late winter or early spring. Plant the seeds 1-2 inches deep in soil with good drainage and maintain a temperature of 72 to 75 degrees F until they sprout. As they germinate, they will need to be thinned to allow adequate room to develop and should be pruned regularly.
Fertilization
For optimal health and vigor, bing cherry trees should be fertilized with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. There are a variety of fertilizers available for home gardeners, but the ones containing a mix of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium are ideal for bing cherry trees. Fertilizing should be done two times a year – once in early spring and once in late summer.
Irrigation
One of the most important aspects of caring for a bing cherry tree is providing enough water. They require regular irrigation or rainfall and should be watered when the soil feels dry to the touch, typically about once per week. Be sure to water deeply near the base of the tree, avoiding wetting the leaves, and ensure that the soil has time for water to be absorbed before watering again.
Pest Control
Pest control is an important part of keeping bing cherry trees healthy and free from disease. There are a variety of ways to control or manage pests, from manual removal to chemical treatments. Organic pest control, such as insecticidal oils, is the most effective and safest way to go when protecting bing cherry trees. It’s also important to monitor and inspect the tree regularly for signs of pests, and treat as necessary.
Disease Prevention
Diseases are a common threat to bing cherry trees, but they can often be prevented with proper care. The best way to prevent disease is to select disease-resistant varieties, maintain good hygiene by removing any fallen fruit or leaves around the tree, and to properly prune the tree to promote air circulation. Additionally, regular treatments with a fungicide can help to keep diseases at bay.
Insulation
In colder climates, protecting bing cherry trees from the cold is essential for its health. Whether it’s wrapping the trunk with burlap in the winter or building protective structures out of wood or plastic to block out the wind, it’s important to take measures to protect the trees from cold winter temperatures. Additionally, mulching with straw can help to regulate soil temperature.
Supports
Once your bing cherry tree is established, it is important to provide adequate support for the branches. This is especially true for taller trees as it will help to promote strength and stability. A variety of options are available such as horizontal branches, guy wires, or even trellis systems. It’s important to provide enough support without damaging the tree.
Fruit Thinning
Bing cherry trees may require thinning in order to promote healthy growth and prevent fruit from dropping prematurely. This process should begin early in the growing season and should be done gradually throughout the whole season. Fruit thinning should be done with care, leaving enough fruit on the tree for it to produce a good crop.
