Materials Needed To Plant A Bare Root Cherry Tree
Planting a bare root cherry tree doesn’t require much in terms of material, but the few items you do need are important. Before getting started, make sure you have the following materials:
- A cherry tree sapling
- A small garden spade or shovel
- A bag of compost or soil
- A shovel or fork for digging
- A thick rope or twine
- A watering can
Preparing The Hole Before Planting The Tree
The first step in planting a bare root cherry tree is to prepare the ground. The key is to create a planting hole that is twice as wide as the tree’s root system, and is deep enough to allow the tree to be planted at the same depth as when it was growing in the nursery.
To prepare the planting hole, begin by removing the grass, roots and any weeds from the intended planting area before digging the hole. Once the area has been cleared and you have dug the hole, break up and loosen the soil at the bottom and sides of the hole. This will ensure the roots of the cherry tree establish themselves quickly, and that the tree takes hold firmly in the soil.
Watering The Cherry Tree Sapling
The next step is to soak the roots of the cherry tree in a large bucket of water for several hours. This will ensure that the roots are well hydrated before planting. Furthermore, it will allow the roots to absorb more water once the tree is planted, reducing the tree’s need for irrigation after planting.
Planting The Cherry Tree
When the roots have been soaked, the cherry tree can now be planted. To do this, start by placing the tree in the center of the planting hole. Then, using your shovel or garden spade, fill the soil back into the planting hole and pack it down firmly around the tree’s root system. This will ensure that the tree is firmly fixed in the ground and will act as a stabilizer for the tree.
Once the soil is packed firmly around the cherry tree, the rope or twine should be tied around the trunk at the base. This will help the tree stand steady and prevent it from falling over when the wind blows.
Feeding The Cherry Tree Sapling
Once the cherry tree is planted, it’s important to give it a good start. Adding a high-quality compost or soil to the planting hole will provide the necessary nutrients the tree needs to begin growing. The exact amount of compost or soil to use depends on the size of the cherry tree. Generally, you should use about three spade-fuls for a five-foot sapling.
Caring For The Cherry Tree
It’s important to care for the cherry tree once it has been planted. Give it plenty of water during the first few months of growth, as well as throughout the entire growing season. During the summer months, make sure to give the tree extra water if the soil is dry.
Fertilizing the cherry tree sapling with a balanced fertilizer should begin a few months after it has been planted. This will provide the tree with the extra nutrients it needs to continue growing and stay healthy.
Protecting The Cherry Tree
One of the most important steps in caring for a cherry tree sapling is to protect it from pests, diseases and harsh weather conditions. Be sure to cover the tree with a plastic sheet or mulch when cold weather or heavy rain is in the forecast, as this will help protect the sapling from extreme temperatures and prolonged exposure to moisture.
In addition, be sure to watch out for pests and diseases.Keep a close eye on the tree and if you see any signs of damage or illness, contact your local nursery or garden center right away for advice on how to treat the problem.
Sherwood Trees – A Preferred Cherry Tree Species
While there are many different varieties of cherry trees available, the Sherwood tree is often preferred for its robustness, reliable crop and long-lived nature. It grows best in full sun and well-drained soil, and is known to have high resistance to disease. The Sherwood is a popular tree for many home gardeners, as it is easy to maintain and can produce a large crop of cherries every year.
Harvesting Cherries From The Sherwood Tree
The Sherwood tree is a self-fertile variety, meaning it does not need another tree nearby to pollinate and produce fruit. As the cherries ripen in mid to late summer, they can be harvested by hand or with a cherry picker. Most cherries should be allowed to fully ripen before they are harvested, as this will provide the most flavor and sweetness.
Benefits Of Planting A bare Root Cherry Tree
Planting a bare root cherry tree provides many benefits. It is less expensive than buying a mature tree, and can also take less time to become established. Additionally, bare root trees are easier to transport and are more tolerant of shock from poor soils or less-than-ideal conditions. As a result, they are often preferred over their potted counterparts.
Establishing A Strong Root System
The most important part of planting a bare root cherry tree is establishing a strong, healthy root system. This is best accomplished by preparing the soil beforehand, by soaking the cherry tree’s roots prior to planting, providing adequate water and nutrients, and protecting the tree from damaging weather and pests. Following these steps should ensure a healthy, long-lived cherry tree that will produce flavorful fruit for many years to come.
