picking cherries from the tree
When it comes to getting cherries off a tree, time is the main factor. Depending on the height of the tree, it can take a lot of time and effort just to collect the cherries. You can either shake the tree and hope the cherries will fall off naturally, or pick out the cherries one-by-one. We will explore the different methods for picking cherries from a tree and how it differs from harvesting other types of fruit.
One of the simplest ways to collect cherries from a tree is to simply shake the branches. This can cause the cherries to fall off naturally and is usually the fastest way to get a substantial amount of cherries in a short amount of time. However, this method can result in bruised or damaged cherries due to the impact on the ground and can introduce the risk of eating moldy or rotten cherries.
Cutting a ladder or a stepladder is another popular method. This method allows a person to climb up the tree and pick the cherries manually. It is a safer option as the cherries are not at risk of being exposed to the elements or damaged on the ground. At the same time, it is much more time consuming as cherry picking with a ladder can take hours under the best of circumstances.
In order to pick cherries efficiently and effectively, a person should have some protective gear such as gloves to protect their hands from the sharp thorns on some cherry varieties. Additionally, having a spreader or a bag on hand would be an advantage as it would make the process easier and more efficient. Specialized fruit pickers are devices that are sometimes used for picking cherries and other fruits as well. These provide a safe and easy way to pick the fruit without damaging it and make the process go much faster.
Lastly, having a pole picker is a great way to gather cherries from the top of the tree. Pole pickers are specially designed to reach high-up branches. Using the pole picker requires the user to carefully place the gauge around the cherry and slowly lift it off the tree. This is an efficient method but a person needs to have the right aim and steady hands to make sure they don’t miss the cherries.
types of cherry trees
Cherry trees are a type of fruit tree that exist in many different varieties. Each variety has unique characteristics and different methods of collection. The most common types of cherry trees are sweet cherry, sour cherry, black cherry, and the hybrid cherry tree. Sweet cherry trees produce large sweet cherries generally used in dessert dishes while sour cherry trees produce smaller sour cherries generally used in savory dishes. Black cherry trees produce deep purple-black cherries which are generally used for jams, jellies and other special recipes. The hybrid cherry tree is a combination of sweet and sour cherry trees that produces both kinds of cherries.
Sweet and sour cherry trees can be harvested with a pole picker, a ladder, or by shaking the branches. However, black cherry and hybrid cherry trees generally require more precise harvesting due to their intricate branches. Pole pickers are usually the most effective option for harvesting black and hybrid cherries as their precise gauge means the branches won’t be disturbed and the cherries won’t be damaged.
When it comes to harvesting cherries, the best method is often the simplest. If you have access to any of the tools mentioned here, use them to make harvesting easier and get the most out of your time. Safety should always be the key factor, no matter what kind of cherry tree you have, tools should always be used with care and precautions should be taken to avoid any accidents.
storage and refrigeration
When it comes to storing or refrigerating cherries, the process is fairly simple. After picking the cherries, make sure to treat them with care as not to damage any of them. Then, wash and dry them thoroughly and remove any stems or spoiled cherries. Place the cherries in an airtight container, such as a plastic bag or an airtight container and store in the refrigerator.
Fresh cherries should last up to five days in the refrigerator but can last up to two weeks if frozen. To freeze cherries, place them in a single layer on a cookie sheet and place in the freezer for 2-3 hours until they are completely frozen. Then, transfer them into an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to two months.
When thawing frozen cherries, simply place them in the refrigerator for a few hours until thawed. Remember to always eat cherries within a couple of days after thawing to ensure the best flavor and quality. Always discard any rotten cherries, as consumption of spoilt cherries can lead to food poisoning.
drying cherries
Drying cherries is another popular way to preserve them that allows people to enjoy their fruits all year round. Cherries can be dried in a dehydrator or in an oven. When using a dehydrator, place the cherries on the tray in a single layer and turn the dial to the “fruit” setting. Set the temperature to around 145F and let it run for 8-10 hours until the cherries have reached the desired level of dryness.
When drying cherries in the oven, spread them in an even layer on a baking sheet and bake at 155-165F for 5-7 hours, or until the cherries reach your desired level of dryness. Once done, let the cherries cool before storing in an airtight container. Storing cherries in a cool and dry place will ensure that your dried cherries last for up to a year.
preserving cherries
Cherries can also be preserved in a jar using a canning process. To do this, thoroughly wash and sterilize the jars and lids. Then, heat up the cherries with a water bath mixture and add in a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent discoloration. Boil the cherries for 10 minutes and then transfer to a sanitized jar and lid. Leave the jars to cool before storing in a cool, dark place. Preserved cherries can last up to one year if stored correctly.
Preserved cherries are a great way to enjoy the fruity taste of summer during the colder months. They can also be used in a variety of recipes such as jams, cakes, and pies. When it comes to pies, the preserved cherries will retain their sweetness and keep their shape, much better than fresh cherries.
recipes with cherries
Whether eaten fresh, dried, or preserved, cherries are a delicious and tasty addition to any meal. There are many recipes that can be made with cherries, from sweet and savory dishes to desserts and snacks. Some popular recipes with cherries include cherry crumble, cherry pie, cherry jam, cherry cobbler, and cherry clafoutis. For a savory dish, cherries can also be added to salads or incorporated into a sauce for meats such as pork, duck, and chicken.
Cherries are a versatile and delicious fruit that is perfect for any occasion. Although it may take time and effort, harvesting cherries from the tree is one of the best ways to enjoy the true flavor of summer. From picking and preserving to drying and cooking, there are so many different ways to enjoy cherries.
baking with cherries
Baking with cherries is an easy and rewarding way to enjoy this sweet summer fruit. Fresh or frozen cherries can be incorporated into a range of recipes like cakes, muffins, and breads. If you’d like to make a sweet treat with cherries, adding a few tablespoons of sugar or honey to enhance their flavor is a nice touch. Furthermore, adding a small amount of coconut oil or almond butter to the batter can give the cake a delicious and creamy texture.
Cherry pies are also a great baking project for those who aren’t experienced in the kitchen. After poaching the cherries in a small amount of water, simply mix in a few tablespoons of cornstarch, a pinch of salt, and any other desired flavorings before transferring the mixture to a pre-baked pie crust. Once the filling is inside, use a fork or a pastry brush to brush the top of the pie with an egg wash. Place the pie in the oven and bake at 350F for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until golden. Enjoy the delicious homemade cherry pie!
juicing cherries
Cherry juice is a nutrient-packed and delicious way to enjoy this summer fruit. For a delicious cherry juice, start by washing and destemming the cherries before adding them to the juicer. After the cherries have been juiced, add the juices to a blender with a few tablespoons of honey and any other desired flavorings. Blend the mixture until smooth and enjoy your homemade cherry juice.
Alternatively, cherries can be blended into a smoothie for a sweet, tangy, and creamy drink. Add half a cup of cherries to a blender with coconut milk, yogurt, and honey to make a sweet and healthy smoothie. For a more delicious smoothie, add in a banana or other desired fruits and vegetables.
Cherries are delicious and perfect for a variety of recipes. Whether you are looking for a sweet treat or just want to enjoy their flavor, cherries are always a great addition to any meal. From harvesting to cooking and baking, cherries are sure to bring summertime joy to your kitchen.
