Montmorency cherries are packed full of nutrients and vitamins, making them a delicious addition to your yard. While they may be intimidating to plant initially, with a little bit of preparation, planting your cherry tree will be easy.
First, research the type of tree you want to buy. The montmorency cherry tree is the most popular type of cherry tree, and it can be planted in almost any climates. Check to make sure the tree will be suitable for the environment where you will be planting it.
Once your cherry tree arrives, unpack it and carefully remove the burlap and plastic bag that is used to keep its roots safe. If you notice any dry or damaged roots, cut them away. Carefully remove the rest of the burlap and plastic bag, being careful not to damage any of the roots.
When you have removed the burlap and plastic bag, soak the root system in water for at least fifteen minutes. This will help to ensure the tree is hydrated throughout the planting process. If your tree does not have a pre-made hole for its roots, then you will need to dig a hole about twice the size of the root ball.
Gently place your cherry tree in the hole you have made and fill in the rest of the hole with soil. Make sure to pack the soil tightly around the roots to keep your tree in place. Water the tree well and add a layer of mulch to help keep the roots moist.
Keep an eye out for pests, as they can often be attracted to cherry trees. To prevent pests, it is important to practice good cultural care such as keeping the tree well-watered and avoiding chemical treatments. If you do spot pests, carefully prune the branches to remove them.
Finally, as your tree grows, you should prune it regularly. Pruning a cherry tree will help stimulate growth and make sure your tree is healthy. Prune in early springtime, before the leaves start to grow. Be sure to only prune branches that are dead or dying, as these can create a risk of disease for the rest of your tree.
Fertilizing Your Tree
Fertilizing your Montmorency cherry tree will help to ensure it grows strong and healthy. When you first plant your tree, you can add a slow-release fertilizer to the soil. This will provide the tree with essential nutrients and minerals that it needs to be healthy. Make sure you don’t over-fertilize as this can damage the tree.
You should fertilize your tree once every two or three months during the growing season. This will depend on the type of fertilizer you use, so be sure to check the directions on the packaging. Generally speaking, the fertilizer should be applied to the ground around the tree and then watered in.
Fertilizing your tree can help boost its health and growth, so it is worth doing if you want to get the most out of your tree. With the right care and attention, your Montmorency cherry tree should be a delicious and welcome addition to your garden.
Irrigation and Moisture Levels
One of the most important things you can do for your Montmorency cherry tree is make sure it gets enough water. This is particularly important during the summer months when the tree can become stressed from the heat.
Ideally, you should water your tree every two or three days during the summer. This can be done with a hose, but make sure not to overwater the tree. You don’t want to flood the soil, as this can damage the roots. Monitor the moisture levels of the soil and make sure it does not become too dry.
If the soil does become dry, it may be beneficial to mulch around the base of the tree. This will help to keep moisture in the soil and can help to protect the tree from extreme temperatures. Mulching can also help to suppress weed growth and help keep the roots insulated.
Pruning and Harvesting
Pruning and harvesting your Montmorency cherries is relatively straightforward. In late winter, before the buds open, you should prune your tree to remove any dead or damaged branches. This will help to keep the tree healthy and encourage new growth.
When harvesting your cherries, make sure to pick them when they are ripe. This will ensure they are as sweet as possible. Bags or netting can help to protect the cherries from birds and other pests. You can also help to keep the branches from breaking during harvest by using a ladder or other support system.
Harvesting your Montmorency cherries can provide you with endless possibilities for delicious recipes. Whether you enjoy them in a pie or make your own jam, you’re sure to have plenty of delicious treats from your cherry tree.
Conclusion
If you follow these steps and care for your tree properly, you’ll soon be able to enjoy the tasty fruits of your Montmorency cherry tree. With the right preparation and a bit of patience, your tree should thrive and provide you with tasty cherries for many years to come.
