What are the Benefits of Growing a Bing Cherry Tree From Seed?
Growing a bing cherry tree from seed is a rewarding activity that can produce tasty, high-quality fruits for years to come. A bing cherry tree, when grown from seed, easily reaches a height of 12-20 feet tall, and will produce abundant quantities of sweet, dark red cherries that are packed with nutritional benefits. By growing a bing cherry tree from seed, you will save money in the long run, as you won’t need to buy expensive saplings from a nursery or store. Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that you grew your own tree from seed and will be able to share its bounty with family and friends.
What Are the Steps Needed to Grow a Bing Cherry Tree From Seed?
Growing bing cherry trees from seed requires patience, as the trees may not produce fruit for up to three years after germination. You must first purchase fresh bing cherry seeds or find them in the flesh of a bing cherry. Start the germination process by lying the seeds between moist paper towels, placing them in a warm area, and keeping them moist. Once the seeds germinate, it is important to pot them into small pots using good quality potting soil and ensuring that the soil is not too dry or wet.
The next step is to gradually introduce your bing cherry tree seedlings to outdoor conditions and transplant them into larger pots before planting them in the ground or a potting container. In order to ensure successful growth, it is important to plant them in a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Periodically check the tree to make sure it is free of pests and diseases, and water the tree regularly.
What Are the Nutritional Benefits of Bing Cherries?
Bing cherries are a powerhouse of nutrients. Not only are they a good source of vitamin C and dietary fibre, they are also an excellent source of polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect against various diseases, as well as polyunsaturated fats that help reduce cholesterol levels. In addition, bing cherries are a good source of potassium, calcium, magnesium and other essential minerals. The high levels of antioxidants in bing cherries make them ideal for protecting your cells from cellular damage, and for helping to control blood sugar levels.
Harvesting and Storing Bing Cherries
When attempting fresh bing cherries, it is important to look for evenly-colored fruits that are firm and plump, as these are the best for eating. Once harvested, the cherries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. However, they are also ideal for making into jam, juice, and other recipes, so you can enjoy bing cherries all year round.
Making the Most of Your Bing Cherry Tree
Once the bing cherry tree is mature, it is time to decide how best to make use of it. In addition to harvesting and consuming the fresh cherries, you can also make jams and chutneys, or freeze the cherries for later use. Additionally, you can even dry the fruit, which will enable you to enjoy the later harvest in the off season.
Caring For the Tree and Ensuring a Healthy Harvest
It is important to regularly prune and shape the tree during its growth, as this will help ensure a dense canopy and larger fruit yields. Regular fertilization is also necessary, as bing cherry trees require ample amounts of nutrients to survive. Make sure to water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods, as this will help to promote healthy growth.
Tips for New Bing Cherry Tree Growers
If you are new to bing cherry tree growing, there are a few things you can do to ensure successful growth and a healthy harvest. Before planting the tree, perform a soil test to ensure that the soil is well drained, has good drainage, and is rich in organic matter. Additionally, plant multiple bing cherry trees to ensure cross-pollination to ensure a larger harvest, and place the trees 15-20 feet away from each other to ensure adequate growing space.
Disease and Pest Prevention
When growing bing cherry trees, it is important to be aware of potential diseases and pests that can cause damage. Common diseases include leaf spot, twig canker, and crown gall, while common pests include caterpillars and aphids. To protect your tree, use a copper-based fungicide spray and insecticide to help prevent the spread of infestations.
Bing Cherry Tree Propagation and Naturalization
Propagation and naturalization of bing cherry trees is possible, either by planting seeds or cuttings. Seeds should be planted directly in the ground, as they will not tolerate transplanting. When planting cuttings, use a sharp knife to cut the stem at an angle, plant the cutting in well-drained soil, and water regularly.
Fertilizing and Training Your Bing Cherry Tree
Fertilizing your bing cherry tree regularly will help ensure a healthy and abundant harvest. When selecting a fertilizer, opt for one that is low in nitrogen, high in phosphorus, and balanced in other nutrients. Additionally, it is important to train your bing cherry tree, as this will help to increase yields and ensure a healthy tree. Pruning and training the tree will help to maintain its shape, which is often considered key to success when growing bing cherry trees.
