Gathering Necessary Supplies
Growing a cherry tree from the pit can be a fun and educational project for the beginner gardener. To begin, gather the necessary supplies. Start with a healthy pit and organic potting soil mix. Make sure to also have a pot large enough to contain the growing tree, drainage material, a container to mix the soil in, and a few small sticks to support the tree as it grows.
Additionally, gather some gloves, pruning shears and a garden hose. All of these supplies will help to ensure the success of the tree. It is also important to note that this project requires patience, as cherry trees can take up to two years to produce fruit from the pit.
Preparing the Pit
Before placing the pit in the soil, it is important to prepare it for germination. To begin this process, place the pit into warm water, and let it sit for a few hours. Once the pit is softened, use a knife to carefully remove the dark, outer layer of the pit. This layer helps protect the seed from moisture, and should be carefully removed.
Once this layer is removed, gently tap the remaining shell of the pit with a wooden mallet until it cracks. Then, carefully remove the smaller inner seed. This seed is the tree’s germ of life, and will eventually grow into the cherry tree. Make sure to handle the seed with care.
Setting Up the Pot
To establish the pot, begin by adding a layer of drainage material such as pebbles or gravel at the bottom. then, mix the organic potting soil with a small amount of compost. Finally, add the soil to the pot, and water thoroughly.
Next, carefully place the seed about two inches below the surface of the soil. After, lightly press the seed into the soil to ensure that it is securely placed. Then, water the pit and add additional soil to the edges of the pot if needed. Finally, use the small sticks to create a support structure for the tree.
Caring for the Tree
Once the pot has been setup, it is important to care for the tree in order for it to grow successfully. Start by placing the pot in an area of the garden that receives ample sunshine and water. Additionally, make sure that the soil is kept moist, but not waterlogged.
Once the tree begins to develop, use the pruning shears to remove any dead or damaged branches. Additionally, make sure to watch out for any pests, and take action accordingly. It is also important to note that a cherry tree should be fertilized during the spring and summer months, in order to ensure optimal growth.
Harvesting the Fruit
After two years, it is possible for the cherry tree to begin producing fruit. To ensure that the fruit is harvested at the perfect time it is important to keep a close eye on the trees. Start by observing when the cherries start to change from green to red. Once the desired color has been reached, try a few that are ready to pick and see if they meet the desired taste and sweetness.
Then, wait for the tree to give a signal that the fruit is ready to be harvested. This can be in the form of the cherries starting to fall from the branch, or the branch easily giving away when lightly tugged. Once this happens, the fruit is ready to be harvested.
Storing the Fruit
After harvesting, it is important to store the cherries properly. The best way to store cherries is by layering them in a single layer on a tray and then covering them with damp paper towels. This will help to keep the cherries moist and will prevent them from drying out.
Cherries can also be frozen if they are not going to be consumed right away. To do this, first rinse the cherries under cold running water and then spread them out onto a baking sheet. Freeze the cherries in this manner until solid, and then transfer them to an airtight container.
Replanting for Future Use
Once the cherries have been harvested, the pit can be replanted if desired. To do this, first place the pit into warm water, and let it sit for a few hours. Once it has softened, remove the outer layer of the pit and then gently tap the remaining shell with a wooden mallet until it cracks. Carefully remove the seed from the inside.
Next, create a pot with soil and drainage material and place the seed about two inches below the surface of the soil. Carefully press the seed into the soil and then water the pot. Finally, use small sticks to provide support for the tree as it grows.
Propagating for Maximum Yield
For a cherry tree to produce a large yield of cherries, it is important to properly propagate the tree. This includes planting several pits in the same area, at different heights and spacing them at least six feet apart. Additionally, it is important to prune the tree regularly in order to ensure that only the strongest branches remain and that the cherry tree is not overcrowded.
The roots should also be well taken care of. This can be done by using mulch around the base of the tree, in order to protect it from the elements and also add nutrients to the soil. Make sure to use organic mulch, as this will help to create healthy, nutrient-rich soil for the tree.
Protecting the Tree from Drought
Finally, it is important to protect the tree from drought and severe weather. During periods of drought, make sure to water the tree deeply, in order to ensure that the roots are reaching deep down into the soil and accessing the necessary nutrients it needs. Additionally, it is important to monitor the soil moisture, and adjust the watering accordingly.
During periods of severe weather, it is important to provide extra protection for the tree. Place a large tarp above the tree to create shelter, and also use hay or straw blankets to bundle the tree and protect it from the cold. With a little bit of patience and proper care, the cherry tree can thrive and produce delicious cherries for years to come.
