How to Grow a Cherry Tree From a Cherry
Imagine biting into a juicy sweet cherry straight off the tree in your own backyard. Growing a cherry tree may seem daunting to some, but with the right information and a bit of work, it can be a rewarding experience. Whether you’ve always dreamt of having a cherry tree or simply want to know the basics of how it’s done, this step-by-step guide will help you get started.
The process of propagating a cherry tree from a cherry requires patience and care. Most methods take upwards of several years, so make sure to remain consistent with your practice and you will soon be able to reap the rewards of your endeavour. The three main methods for growing a cherry tree from a cherry are seed propagation, stem cutting propagation, and grafting.
Seed Propagation
The most common method of propagating a cherry tree is by seed. Start by sorting out the cherries to select the sweetest and best ones.
Next, separate the stones from the flesh, discarding the stones and keeping the flesh in a jar of water. Let the flesh ferment for several days in order to break down the external layer of the cherry stones, or seeds.
Once the fermentation process is complete, move the stones to a colander and rinse them with running water. Then, place the cherry stones into a bowl of lukewarm water for about one hour. This is necessary for the stones to absorb enough moisture.
Finally, sow the cherry stones in a prepared seed tray filled with well-draining potting mix.
Remember to give the seed tray adequate sunlight, water, and air. If done correctly, the cherry stones should start to germinate within a few weeks.
Stem Cutting Propagation
Stem cutting propagation is another method of propagating a cherry tree. Start by selecting a healthy cherry tree that’s free of pests and diseases. Then, obtain 10-15cm (4-6inch) length cuttings from the tree.
Next, trim the cutting just under a node, or budding eye, and strip away the lower leaves with a sharp pair of gardening scissors, leaving one or two sets of leaves at the top of the cutting. To help the cutting form strong roots, you may also need to cut a notch into the bark before placing it in the rooting media.
Finally, plant the cutting in a deep, damp rooting medium. This can be done by placing the cut end of the cutting into the media and lightly pressing down around the cut end. If done correctly, the cutting should soon sprout.
Grafting
Grafting is the third method for propagating a cherry tree. This involves combining two plants of differing varieties, allowing them to grow as one entity. As such, you will need two separate plants; one to provide the scion, or grafted part, and one to provide the rootstock.
The most popular grafting techniques used for cherries are whip grafting and cleft grafting. To begin, make sure the scion and rootstock have similar diameters. Next, cut the scion and rootstock at an angle, and then place them together in such a way that their vascular cambiums (lines running along the stems) touch. The two pieces should be taped together.
After the grafting process is complete, wrap the graft and enclose it with a wax paper to protect it from the elements. Make sure the wax paper is secured at the top and the bottom to ensure that the plant can receive proper air circulation. Again, with proper care and maintenance, the grafted cherry tree should be ready to harvest within a couple of years.
Care and Maintenance
Regardless of the method you use, caring for a cherry tree can be time consuming but it is essential in ensuring its health and longevity. You will need to provide the cherry tree with enough sunlight, water, and air to ensure that it’s properly nourished.
You should also regularly prune the tree to encourage growth and shape the branches and foliage. Additionally, it may be necessary to fertilise the tree with a balanced fertiliser to maintain the tree’s health, fruit quality and quantity.
Finally, it is important to remember that cherry trees can be susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, so inspect the tree regularly for any signs of infection and take the necessary steps to stop any potential problems from spreading.
Harvesting Your Cherry Tree
After several years of cultivating your cherry tree, you will be ready to begin harvesting. Depending on the variety, cherries usually begin to ripen in late spring and early summer. You can usually tell when they are ripe by their colour, size, and flavour.
When harvesting cherries, be sure to pick them gently so as not to damage them. Also, it’s important not to leave any unripe cherries on the tree as this can reduce future harvests. Be sure to spin the cherry in your hand and give it a slight tug to check that it is fully ripe before picking it.
Finally, store the harvested fruit in a cool, dry place for optimum flavour and texture. Enjoy your home-grown cherries freshly picked or find creative ways to use them in recipes like jams, sauces, and pies.
Planting from a Nursery
If you plan to start growing a cherry tree from a nursery, first identify a suitable location that receives plenty of sunlight. Choose a sheltered spot that is protected from strong winds, and make sure the spot is well-drained. Then, dig a large hole that’s twice the size of the root ball of the cherry tree.
Before planting the cherry tree, inspect the root system and prune away any dead or damaged roots. Place the tree into the hole with the main stem facing north and ensure that the root crown is level with the soil surface. Fill the hole with soil and water the tree with a deep soaking, preferably at least twice per week. If done correctly, the cherry tree should begin to bear fruit within 5 to 10 years.
Pest and Disease Control
Ideally, it’s best to avoid pests and diseases from the start by selecting a healthy cherry tree variety, but if the problem occurs, you must take action quickly. Improve the cherry tree’s growing environment by planting it in well-drained soil, providing good air circulation and adequate watering.
In order to identify the particular pest or disease, look out for signs such as discoloured leaves, spots on fruits and flowers, and weakened branches. Once you have identified the problem, you can then choose an appropriate control measure, such as pruning away infected branches or using a natural product to eliminate the source of the issue.
Final Remarks
Growing a cherry tree from a cherry may take a lot of effort, but the rewards are plentiful. Cherry trees can bring joy to your life with their pretty blossoms in spring, fragrant scent in summer and delicious cherries in early autumn. With the right knowledge, attention to detail, and care, you can start enjoying your own cherries within a couple of years.
