A cherry tree is a beautiful addition to any yard or garden, and the joy of harvesting a crop of delicious cherries is unparalleled. While the thought of planting a cherry tree from a seed is appealing, it is important to understand the amount of time and effort that goes into it in order to achieve success. In this article, we will discuss how long it takes to grow a cherry tree from seed under optimal conditions.
To begin with, it is important to understand that cherry trees can take several years to bear fruit. To begin with, freshly harvested cherry seeds need to be dried and stored in a cool, dry place for a few months before planting. Seeds should be planted in the spring in well-drained, organic soil and given plenty of sunlight. The saplings require particular care and attention in their early stages, such as regular pruning and regular application of fertilizer.
Cherry trees have a slow growth rate and will not bear fruit for at least three years and often longer. The amount of time it takes for a cherry tree to go from a seed to a tree bearing fruit can vary depending on the variety of cherry tree, the care it is given, and the environmental conditions. Generally speaking, it usually takes around five to seven years before a cherry tree reaches maturity and begins to bear fruit.
Additionally, cherry trees must be pollinated if they are to produce fruit. Since cherry trees tend to have separate male and female trees, it is important to ensure that there is at least one male tree close by in order for the female tree to receive the necessary pollen. If a cherry tree is planted in a windy location, then it is important to ensure the tree receives enough irrigation to provide the necessary moisture for proper pollination.
Furthermore, the type of soil the cherry tree is planted in is also important. Areas that are prone to clay soils or soils that are too acidic should be avoided as they can cause problems with the pH balance of the soil which can stunt the growth of the tree. Cherry trees should be planted in soil with a pH balance of 6.0 to 7.0.
In terms of pruning, cherry trees should not be pruned heavily until they have matured. Pruning during the early years is largely limited to selective pruning to remove damaged or diseased branches and to thin out the canopy of the tree to allow for more sunlight penetration. During the years leading up to bearing fruit, it is important to prune regularly in order to maintain the tree’s structure and encourage better fruit production.
Finally,cherry trees require regular fertilization to keep them healthy and yield larger amounts of fruit. Fertilizers should be applied in the spring before the tree begins to blossom and again in mid-summer. It is important to follow the directions on the fertilizer packaging carefully as excessive fertilization can cause more harm than good.
Tree Location
When planting a cherry tree, it is important to choose the proper location. Cherry trees prefer sunny spots, so a spot in the yard with plenty of direct sunlight is ideal. Additionally, cherry trees prefer soils that are loamy and well-drained, so sites near paved surfaces should be avoided as they can easily become flooded.
Cherry trees must also be planted in areas that are sheltered from strong winds. Strong winds can damage the tree’s fragile branches and fruits, and can weaken its structure over time. As such, it is important to plant cherry trees in a sheltered location, such as around a fence or building.
Lastly, it is also important to ensure that the area is free from pest populations, as pests can have a negative impact on cherry trees. Pests such as aphids, borers, and mites can be especially harmful, so it is important to select an area that is relatively free from these and other pests.
Water Requirements
Cherry trees require regular watering to stay healthy and productive, particularly during their first few years. Saplings should be watered deeply and regularly during their first few years so that the roots have access to the ground’s moisture. As the tree matures, it is important to water it regularly, but not too heavily, as cherry trees can quickly become waterlogged.
In areas with drought-like conditions, providing supplemental irrigation can be beneficial. Irrigation systems are especially useful, as they allow for the regular and efficient watering of the tree. However, if utilizing an irrigation system, be sure to set it to water only when necessary, as over-watering can lead to root rot and other diseases.
Pruning
It is important to prune cherry trees regularly to maintain shape, health and ensure optimal fruit production. For young cherry trees, selective pruning should be done to remove weak or damaged branches as well as any branches that are blocking the sunlight access. Once the tree has matured, more extensive pruning should be done to open up the tree’s canopy and promote air circulation.
When pruning, be sure to not remove too much of the tree’s foliage at once, as this will interfere with the tree’s ability to photosynthesize and make food. Additionally, when pruning branches, be sure to use sharp tools and make clean cuts to avoid damage to the branches and promote healing of the wounds.
Harvesting
In terms of harvesting, cherry trees generally begin to bear fruit within four to seven years of being planted. Once ripening begins, cherries should be picked regularly to ensure that those that are ripening do not become overripe. Additionally, be sure to provide plenty of support for the branches, as their weight can cause them to bend and break if proper supports are not in place.
Once the cherries are picked, they should be stored in a cool place and eaten as soon as possible. If storing longer than a few days, cherries should be stored in a warm, dark, and dry place for no more than a week.
