Cherry trees are some of the most beloved trees around the world. They provide a unique and attractive aesthetic and beauty to any landscape. Although these trees can be found in various shapes and sizes, there is one common trait: just how high does a cherry tree grow?
When left unchecked, these trees can reach heights of up to 75 feet or more and can be found with a massive crown spread of 40 feet in diameter. Most of the cherry trees that you can find in North American are pruned to around 15 to 25 feet in height, as this is often the more manageable size for residential properties.
One of the most important elements to consider when planting a cherry tree is the condition and type of soil you are providing the tree with. Although these trees can survive in poor soil conditions, the best results are achieved when the tree is transplanted into well-draining, organic soil. On the other hand, if you don’t provide the tree with the necessary amount of water and light, it won’t receive the nutrients it needs to grow, so it might grow slowly.
The weather can also play a major role in how high a cherry tree grows. For instance, too much wind can damage the easily bruised leaves. On top of that, colder temperatures, typically below 30 degrees Fahrenheit, can damage young cherry trees and break off the flower buds. This can lead to a delayed growing season and can suppress the potential of the tree to reach full height.
The health of a cherry tree can also impact its growth. If the soil isn’t well-draining, if the tree is not getting enough water, or if pests have begun to infest the leaves, these trees will not reach their potential heights. In an extreme case, rotting of the trunk or limbs can ultimately lead to the loss of its stalwart existence.
At the end of the day, the height of cherry tree depends on a few factors. When given the appropriate amount of soil, light, water, and nutrients, these majestic trees can reach heights of 75 feet or more in the wild, and easily reach 15 to 25 feet with regular pruning. Therefore, the answer to how high does a cherry tree grow is in the hands of the gardener.
Environmental Effects on Cherry Tree Growth
The environmental conditions of your area can determine how well a cherry tree will grow. The soil can be a major factor in how well the tree will grow, as soils that are too basic, acidic or salty can cause trees to struggle to survive. On the other hand, healthy soil with appropriate drainage will allow a cherry tree to thrive. Sunlight is also important for growth, as the more direct sunlight a cherry tree has, the better chance it has to going produce healthy fruits.
The temperature can also play a major role in cherry trees growing successfully. During the summer, temperatures that are too hot can stress out the tree, while a mild winter season can prevent its fruit from properly blooming. On top of that, winds can damage the delicate leaves of the tree, leading to poor growth.
Pruning Technique Affects Cherry Tree Growth
The pruning technique used on any type of tree is an important determinant for how high it will grow. While pruning can be used to help a cherry tree thrive, it is also possible to do too much of it, which can stunt the growth of the tree. Therefore, it is extremely important to make sure that you know how to prune properly, as any misstep can lead to compromising the growth of the tree.
In order to prune successfully, one must be aware of the following: when to prune, the type of pruning cuts to make, and the area on the tree that needs to be pruned. Experienced pruners will typically recommend cutting away branches that are diseased and clustered, as they can limit the tree’s growth and production. Furthermore, it is important to prune at the right time and to understand the tree’s current growth pattern.
Cherry Tree Pruning Recommendations
It is important to realize that this process should be done frequently and meticulously, especially when your tree is young. Therefore, the best recommendation for optimizing cherry tree growth is to prune them once a year. You should start by pruning the dead wood and then trim away any branches that are crossing with each other. After that, you can shape and proportion the tree according to your preferences.
Young trees should be pruned more often, as pruning allows them to grow correctly. Lastly, remember to prune the tree correctly, as any mistake can lead to compromising the tree’s growth and overall health. Additionally, it should be noted that pruning cherry trees is much more complex than pruning other species, so seeking professional help is highly recommended.
Fertilizer, Pests and Illness
The fertilizer a cherry tree receives can also have an impact on how high it will grow. Fertilizers need to be used regularly and with caution, since over-fertilizing can often lead to the tree growing too much and becoming unruly. On the other hand, over-fertilizing can also cause trees to become brittle, which can open them up to, more pest attacks and damage.
Pests can be a major issue when growing cherry trees. A variety of pests including Japanese beetles, aphids and spider mites can infest cherry tree leaves, weaken the tree and ultimately prevent it from reaching its full potential height. Additionally, certain diseases such as leaf spot and only root rot can stunt a cherry tree’s growth and should be treated as soon as possible.
Conclusion
Cherry trees can grow to some impressive heights depending on the care and attention they receive. The soil which supports them and the climate of the area can drastically affect growth as well. Just as important, is the pruning technique used to ensure growth is being optimized. Finally, pests, fertilizer, and illness can also determine how high a cherry tree can grow. With the proper care and attention, these trees can reach heights of up to 75 feet and more.
