Soil Preparation
Cherry trees need well-drained, deep, fertile soil high in organic matter. The optimal soil pH for cherries range from 5.0 to 6.5. Before planting, prepare the soil by tilling the area and breaking up soil clods. Dig a hole twice as deep and twice as wide as the tree’s root ball. Add a healthy dose of organic compost or aged manure. Work it into the soil so the cherry tree has the best possible soil environment in which to grow.
Planting
Once the soil preparation is done, it’s time to plant the cherry tree from seed. To help the seedling become established, moisten the planting hole with a hose to create a mud-like consistency. Place the seed in a small hole in moist soil and cover it with soil. Water, lightly and frequently and be sure to water deeply.
Light and Temperature Requirements
Cherry trees thrive in full sun and temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature dips below 40 degrees during the winter, young trees may suffer from cold damage. To ensure the tree’s best chance of survival and growth, keep the soil around the roots evenly moist throughout the growing season.
Fertilizer and Pruning
When the tree starts to develop fruit, apply a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer to the soil around the tree and mulch the area to conserve moisture. Cherry trees are self-pollinating, however, pruning will help in maintaining their shape, removing dead or diseased branches and promoting sufficient air circulation.
Protecting the Tree
To protect the tree from pests, cover it with a fine mesh or cloth cover. Check the tree periodically for signs of pests or diseases, and treat accordingly. Use natural solutions, such as pheromones, when possible. When spring arrives, be wary of black aphids and tent caterpillars, as they can cause defoliation of the foliage, stunting the tree’s growth and development.
Harvesting the Fruit
Once the tree starts to bear fruit, harvest the cherries when they are fully ripe. Ripe cherries will be a deep red color and will easily separate from the stem when touched. Use a pair of scissors or pruning shears to carefully cut the stem away from the cherry. Be sure to handle the cherries carefully and store them in a location that is cool and dry, such as a refrigerator.
Preserving the Seeds
When preserving the seeds, place them in an airtight container, such as a jar or a plastic bag. Add a bit of water and store in a cool, dry place. The seeds should remain viable for up to 3 years.
Planting the Seeds
To plant the cherry tree seeds, plant them in a pot using a potting mix or potting soil. Place the pot in an area that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight a day. Water the seeds and make sure the soil remains moist. When the seedlings appear, scoop them out of the pot and plant them in a prepared bed.
Watering the Cherry Tree
Cherry trees need a lot of water during their first year of growth. Water the young tree regularly to help it become established. Once the tree has matured and is producing fruit, water it deeply twice a week to make sure it is getting enough water. To conserve water, build up a layer of mulch around the tree. Mulch helps to conserve moisture and will keep the roots from drying out.
Pest Control
The most common pests to affect cherry trees are caterpillars, scale insects and aphids. To control these pests, you can use natural methods such as promoting beneficial predators, encouraging beneficial insects and handpicking pests when needed. You can also use pesticides and insecticides, but do so sparingly and always follow the manufacturer’s directions for application.
Fertilizing the Cherry Tree
When the tree is established and is producing fruit, apply a well-balanced fertilizer with a neutral pH. You can also use an organic fertilizer to help feed the tree. Apply the fertilizer in the spring and then again in the summer. Avoid fertilizing in the fall as this can promote tender new growth that can be damaged by cold weather.
Pruning the Cherry Tree
Pruning the cherry tree helps to regulate its size, maintain its shape and promote the growth of healthy fruit. When pruning, make sure not to prune too much as this can lead to weak branches and produce smaller fruit. Using a pair of garden shears or pruning scissors, cut away any damaged branches and any branches that are overgrown and congested so that the tree is open and well-ventilated.
Harvesting and Storing the Fruit
Once the cherries are ripe, harvest them carefully and store them in the refrigerator. If you plan to freeze them, make sure the cherries are pitted and processed. Overripe fruit can be made into jams, jellies or pies.
Preventing and Treating Diseases
One of the most common disease affecting cherry trees is brown rot. To prevent this disease, make sure the tree is planted in a well-drained site and pruned correctly. If the tree is infected with brown rot, treat it with a fungicide. Copper-based fungicides are effective on brown rot and should be applied in the spring, before the onset of the disease.
Conclusion
Growing a cherry tree from seed requires patience and dedication. However, with proper care, the hard work can pay off in the form of a healthy, fruitful tree. Start by preparing the soil and planting the seed, then provide the tree with enough sunlight, water and nutrients to become established. Pay attention to pests and diseases, and take measures to control them. Prune the tree to maintain its shape and visit it regularly to pick ripe cherries for fresh snacking and preserving. Continue to nourish the tree, and you will be rewarded with sweet, juicy cherries for many years to come.
