Harnessing Tree Climbing Techniques
Cherries are a quintessential element of many desserts and salads, easily recognizable by their sweet tart flavor and deep burgundy color. While the fruit can be conveniently purchased at the grocer, they can offer an even more special experience when harvested straight from the tree. If you’re thinking of harvesting cherries from a tree, it’s important to understand the best methods for safe and effective harvesting.
Choosing the Right Equipment
The most important thing to consider when removing cherries from trees is the equipment. A ladder presents one of the best solutions. Unlike stools, ladders provide a better sense of balance and stability and are generally easier to maneuver. Choose a ladder that’s tall enough to reach the tallest portion of the tree. Also, for the best support, make sure that the ladder extends four feet above the top of the tree. In addition, all ladders should be placed on even surfaces for greater stability.
Safety Tips
Safety is critical when reaching for cherries or any other fruit from trees. Never climb a tree without ample support. Never climb a tree wearing shorts or flip–flops, as you could easily slip or lose your balance. Be extra careful when riding down the trunk (as opposed to the branches), because you could potentially tire your arms and lose concentration. Always keep three points of contact when climbing.
Harvesting Cherries
The splendor of a cherry tree cannot be understated. The deep pink flowers open to reveal red, juicy cherries served up on an abundance of leaves and blossoms. When ready to harvest the fruit, a few basic steps are important to ensure that you do everything correctly. First, inspect the fruit for damage or pests and choose the firmest cherries. Use a picking twister or hand picker to gently pull individual cherries from the trees and place them in buckets.
Checking for Ripe Cherry
The ripeness of a cherry can define its taste, texture, and juiciness. It’s important to check each cherry thoroughly before picking it, as the color may not always indicate its ripeness. Color is a good indicator, but it’s only one part of the equation. Gently press on the cherry to find out if it’s soft to the touch and yield to slight pressure. The ripest cherries are firm, sweet, and juicy.
Storing and Maintaining Cherries
Cherries that have been picked at the right time need to be stored and maintained properly. As soon as the harvesting process is complete, store the cherries in a clean, well-ventilated container in the refrigerator. This can guarantee that the cherries will last for up to one week. For longer-term storage, cherries can be frozen for up to six months.
Planting Your Own Cherry Tree
If you’re looking for a more consistent supply of cherries, you can always plant your own cherry tree. Planting a cherry tree requires giving the tree ample room to grow, selecting the right type of soil, and choosing an appropriate tree variety. Additionally, select a location that receives plenty of direct sunlight and drain water easily. Lastly, the tree will need sufficient watering and care to produce healthy, juicy cherries.
Pruning Your Cherry Tree
For healthier, more productive cherry trees, regular pruning is a must. Pruning is used to control the size, shape, and health of the tree. Additionally, pruning is designed to eliminate dead or damaged wood, stimulate fresh growth, and increase air circulation. It’s important to use clean pruners and ensure that the branches are evenly exposed to sunlight.
Watering Your Cherry Tree
Keep your cherry tree healthy and productive by providing adequate water. The tree should receive about 2 inches of water each week. During the winter, you should water your tree only when soil is not frozen. In the spring and summer months, ensure that the soil is neither too dry nor too moist. Increase watering frequency during the harvest period to ensure that your tree produces more cherries.
Fertilizing Your Cherry Tree
Fertilization is an important component of proper tree care, as lush and abundant cherry trees require a healthy diet. Apply a balanced fertilizer in the early spring. Use a water-soluble fertilizer that is specifically designed for fruit trees. Make sure to follow all instructions on the label and spread the fertilizer evenly around the tree.
Controlling Pest and Diseases
Pests and diseases can wreak havoc on a cherry tree, resulting in damaged or even destroyed fruit. Inspect your trees regularly for any infestations or illnesses. Pests such as aphids, spider mites and thrips are common, and infectious diseases such as brown rot or bacterial canker can also take hold. If you notice any of these signs of pest or disease, take appropriate action using organic or chemical treatments.
Ensuring Healthy Harvest
Finally, for consistent and healthy harvests of delicious cherries, mulch the base of the tree to conserve moisture and ward off weeds. Although it is difficult to predict the size of your harvest, you can improve your chances of success by keeping your tree healthy and pest–free. Trees that are given ample care and fertilization will produce abundant and succulent fruit.
