Fruit Tree Basics
The Bing cherry tree is a well-known species in the family Prunus, which also includes peaches, apricots, and almonds. It is an evergreen tree, with dark green leaves, and it is grown for its small, dark red fruit. Depending on its variety, the Bing cherry tree can produce fruit in four to six years – much sooner than other species in the Prunus family.
Bing cherry trees tend to thrive in temperate climates, as cold and warmth are both beneficial for their growth and fruit production. The trees are relatively short, typically no taller than 20 feet when fully grown.
Experts note that the Bing cherry tree requires regular pruning and maintenance in order to produce quality fruit. This includes the removal of spurs, dead and weak branches, and fruit clusters. Keeping the branches of the trees clean and pruned helps to increase fruit production. Without regular maintenance, the quality of fruit produced can suffer.
Farming experts suggest spacing the trees at least 15 feet apart to avoid problems with overcrowding and shading. This ensures that each tree has direct access to sunlight and can blossom and bear healthy fruit. Additionally, sharing the same pollinator across multiple trees helps to ensure enough cross-pollination, which again increases the quality and quantity of fruit produced.
While Bing cherry trees are not typically affected by severe diseases, they can be vulnerable to pests. These include spider mites, aphids, and tent caterpillars, which have been known to damage both the trees and fruit. Keeping the trees healthy and pest-free helps to reduce the risk of future infections.
Soil and Water Requirements
When planting and taking care of a Bing cherry tree, experts suggest planting it in well-drained soil that has high nutrient levels. The soil should be between 6 and 7.5 on the pH scale, which ensures that the tree has access to enough important minerals and nutrients.
In order for Bing cherry trees to produce quality fruit, they need to be kept well hydrated. The amount of water varies depending on the climate and the soil’s ability to store water. As a general rule of thumb, the trees should be watered enough to keep the soil consistently moist. If the soil remains too dry for too long, the quality of fruit produced will suffer.
Experts also suggest mulching around the base of the trees to ensure that the soil retains moisture and to help moderate soil temperatures. Mulch made from bark chips, grass clippings, and hay are all excellent choices for Bing cherry trees.
Best Time to Plant
When looking for the best time to plant Bing cherry trees, it is important to consider local weather conditions. When the nights and early mornings are still cool enough to allow the trees to flourish and grow, the trees should be planted. The ideal time to plant a Bing cherry tree is typically during the spring or fall.
Additionally, new trees should be planted while they are still dormant. Once planted, they will begin to sprout in the following weeks, and they should be watered regularly to ensure that they flourish.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing plays an important role in growing healthy and high quality Bing cherries. It is important to select fertilizers that include a balance of nitrogen, phosphate, and potassium ratios for the best results. Ideally, these fertilizers should be applied twice a year, in the spring and early fall.
Experts suggest selecting a well-balanced, 10-10-10 fertilizer when trying to promote healthy fruit production and overall tree health. These types of fertilizer mixtures promote strong root and branch growth, as well as healthy blooming and fruiting patterns.
Additionally, experts note that it is important to avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to the trees being over-stressed and eventually affected by diseases. Too much fertilizer can also lead to a decrease in fruit quality and an increase in vulnerability to pests and other issues.
Harvesting
Knowing when to harvest Bing cherries can be tricky, as fruit quality can vary greatly depending on climatic and environmental factors. Generally speaking, fruit that is ready to be harvested has a bright red color and firm flesh. If in doubt, it pays to do a taste test to ensure that the fruit is sweet enough to eat.
In terms of seasonality, the Bing cherry tree is considered a summer crop. The tree typically ripens in mid-July to mid-August, depending on the region and climate. The cherries must be picked quickly, as warm summer days can cause the fruit to quickly degrade and become inedible.
Pests and Diseases
As noted above, Bing cherry trees can be vulnerable to pests and diseases throughout their lifespan. Common insect pests that can affect the trees include aphids, mites, and tent caterpillars. These insects can cause damage to both the trees and their fruit.
Bing cherry trees can also be affected by fungal and bacterial diseases. Common fungal diseases include powdery mildew and brown rot, while bacterial diseases include leaf spot and twig blight. These diseases can cause premature leaf and fruit dropping, as well as cankers.
Controlling pests and diseases should be a priority when growing Bing cherry trees. This includes regularly inspecting trees, as well as using approved insecticides and fungicides when necessary. Additionally, using good farming practices, such as crop rotation and sanitation, can help to reduce the risk of pest and disease damage.
Storage
Bing cherries are typically stored in the refrigerator in order to maintain their flavor and texture over time. Proper storage and handling helps to extend their shelf-life and reduce the risk of spoilage. It is best to store the cherries in a shallow container with half of an inch of water in the bottom.
When storing Bing cherries, it is important to check them regularly for any signs of rot or spoilage. Any rotten or damaged fruit should be discarded immediately. Additionally, experts suggest removing the stems before storing them in the refrigerator, as they can draw moisture away from the fruit and make it more prone to spoilage.
Nutrition and Health Benefits
Bing cherry trees produce a fruit that is high in nutrients and low in calories, making them a nutrient- dense snack. A single Bing cherry contains a high content of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which can provide numerous health benefits. The most notable of these include improved digestion, better heart health, and improved immunity.
Bing cherries are particularly rich in vitamin A and C, as well as Iron, Magnesium, and Potassium. They are also rich in anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that is known to reduce inflammation, enhance cognitive function, and boost heart health. Additionally, Bing cherries are a good source of fiber, which can help to regulate digestion and make us feel fuller for longer.
In terms of eating bing cherries, they can be consumed as a snack, cooked into a variety of dishes, added to smoothies, or dried for future use as trail mix.
