Cherry trees are one of the most popular fruits in the world due to their sweet flavor and versatility in baking. But how do you distinguish them from other trees? One way to try is to look for their leaves.
Cherry tree leaves typically have an alternate, simple leaf arrangement. This means that each leaf is attached to a twig without additional leaves. The shape of the leaf also helps identify a cherry tree from other types of trees. Cherry tree leaves are usually oblong or ovate shaped, which means that the edges are slightly curved. They have pointed tips and pointed bases. The leaves can be either glossy or dull, with a smooth surface and no hairiness.
The color of the leaves can also help you identify a cherry tree. Young cherry tree leaves are bright yellow-green while mature cherry tree leaves are dark green. The veins of the leaf are incredibly important because they can tell you a lot about the species of cherry. Cherry tree leaves typically have a network of veins that are well-defined and dense. This vein pattern is often referred to as reticulated or net-veined.
The size and shape of cherry tree leaves may vary depending on the species, so it is important to look for consistencies in the pattern of the leaves to make sure you are correctly identifying the tree. For example, the leaves of the cherry tree commonly found in North America, Prunus avium, have a slightly different shape from other cherry species. The leaves are ovate-lanceolate, which means they are wider in the middle and taper towards the tip. They are usually 6 to 10 cm long and 3 to 6 cm wide.
Cherry tree leaves can also be identified by their texture. Cherry tree leaves are soft with a gentle, velvety feel, unlike the spines of a maple leaf, for example. In fact, the leaves of cherry trees can also be mistaken for those of other members of the rose family due to the softness and colour of the leaves. When holding a cherry tree leaf, it should have a thick and glossy feel.
One of the most definitive tools to use when identifying a cherry tree is the flowers. Depending on the species of cherry, the flowers can range from a light pink to a deep, vivid red. Cherry tree flowers tend to be small and delicate, with five petals surrounding a cluster of yellow stamens. It is these flowers that make cherry trees so attractive to gardeners and fruit lovers alike.
The fruit of the cherry tree is also a key indication of its identity. Cherries are round and grow in bunches, known as Drupes or Agglomerations. Cherries can range in colour from vivid red to deep purple or black. The size of the fruit is also a signifier – depending on the species, the cherries can be anywhere from a few millimetres in diameter to the size of a golf ball or larger.
Observing the Surrounding Trees
It is also important to look at the surrounding trees when trying to identify a cherry tree. Cherry trees are usually found in large groups rather than as individual trees, meaning that there will likely be more than one tree in the area. Each tree may have slightly different characteristics that are useful for identification. For example, the leaves of one tree can be oblong and pointed, while the leaves of another in the same group may be more ovate and rounded. These differences can help you distinguish a cherry tree from the other species of trees in the area.
By observing the shape, colour, and texture of the leaves, as well as looking at the flowers and fruit, you can easily identify a cherry tree. It is important to remember that the shape and size of the leaves and fruit can vary depending on the species of cherry, so it is important to look for consistencies between trees to confirm your identification. Looking at the surrounding trees will also help to ensure that you are correctly identifying the tree.
Pruning Cherry Trees
Once you have identified a cherry tree, it is important to know how to look after it. Pruning is essential for the health and growth of cherry trees. Pruning helps to control the size and shape of the tree and encourages flowering and fruiting. Pruning should be done when the tree is dormant, usually between late November and early March.
When pruning, it is important to remove any broken, diseased, or dead branches. These branches can be dangerous for both the tree and the people around it. If a branch is small and healthy, it can be pruned back to a bud. This will encourage more vigorous growth. If a branch is large and healthy, it is better to cut it back to another large, healthy branch.
In addition to removing unhealthy branches, it is also important to thin out the canopy. This will allow more sunlight to reach the inner branches and leaves. In some cases, if a cherry tree is too large or unruly, it may need to be completely removed. In this case, it is important to use the appropriate tools and techniques to ensure that the tree is removed safely and cleanly.
Fertilizing Cherry Trees
Fertilizing is another essential step for cherry trees as it helps promote healthy growth and fruiting. It is best to fertilize in early spring after the tree has bloomed, and then again in late spring. Ideally, the fertilizer should be spread evenly around the base of the tree, taking care not to damage the roots.
When choosing a fertilizer, it is important to use one that is specially formulated for fruit trees. These will provide the tree with the correct amount and balance of essential nutrients. It is also important to take into account the type of soil the tree is planted in, as some soils may need additional nutrients. Additionally, it is important to avoid over-fertilizing as this can harm the tree.
Harvesting Cherry Trees
Once the cherry tree has been identified and looked after with proper pruning and fertilizing, it is time to harvest the crop. The best time to pick cherries is when they are ripe, which is usually in late spring or early summer. When testing for ripeness, gently press the fruit – if it is soft but slightly firm, it is ready to be picked.
In the case of sweet cherries, the most common type, the easiest way to pick cherries is to grab the stem and gently twist it to remove the fruit. Sour cherries, however, tend to have softer stems and must be carefully snipped off the branch.
When harvesting cherries, it is important to be gentle as to not damage the tree. Damage caused by improper harvesting can weaken the tree and reduce the amount of crops it produces. Additionally, it is important to pick the fruit regularly to ensure that the cherries are ripe when they are picked.
Storing Cherries
Once the cherries have been picked, it is important to store them correctly. Cherries that are not going to be used immediately should be placed in the refrigerator. They should be stored in a perforated container and will last for several days. The cherries can also be stored for longer periods of time in the freezer.
When cooking or baking with cherries, it is important to note that the smaller, sour varieties are best for pies, jams and compotes, while the larger, sweeter cherries are better for eating fresh or in salads. The sweet cherry tree leaves, flowers and fruit can easily be identified with the right technique, making it easier to reap the rewards of harvesting them.
