Bringing the Beauty of Cherries Indoors
Growing cherry trees in a pot is a great way to enjoy their beauty without taking up a lot of space. These trees produce small and tasty cherries, that can be enjoyed over the summer months and make an impressive addition to any yard or garden. While cherries are native to temperate climates, they can also thrive indoors with a bit of care. Here’s a step by step guide to planting and caring for your cherry tree in a pot.
Selecting a Pot for Your Cherry Tree
The first step to getting your cherry tree off to a good start is selecting the right pot. When picking out a pot, it is important to consider size, type, and material. For cherry trees, larger pots are ideal as they give the roots more space to spread out, but small enough to still be manageable. Clay or plastic pots are both suitable for cherry trees, although clay pots may be better since they help keep the soil from drying too quickly.
Choosing the Right Soil for Your Cherry Tree
Planting your cherry tree in the right kind of soil is also important for its health and growth. A potting mix that is specifically designed for fruit trees is ideal, as it is formulated to promote the growth of fruits and vegetables. This potting mix should be supplemented with some garden compost or manure, to ensure a nutrient-rich environment for your cherry tree.
Watering and Fertilizing Your Cherry Tree
Once your cherry tree is planted in the pot, you should keep a close eye on the soil’s moisture levels. The soil should remain slightly damp, as too much water can lead to root rot. You should also fertilize your tree once a month, using a fertilizer that is specifically designed for fruit trees.
Pruning Your Cherry Tree
In order for your cherry tree to produce the best fruit, it is important to prune it regularly. Pruning not only helps encourage the growth of new branches, it also improves air circulation and light permeation which helps with the development of flowers and fruits. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.
Limiting Frost Damage
Cherry trees are particularly susceptible to damage from cold weather. Trees grown in pots should be protected from frost during the winter months by wrapping the pot in thick blankets or a bubble wrap. If the pot has been moved indoors, make sure that it is placed in a room that is not too warm.
Controlling Pests and Diseases
Pests and diseases can cause serious damage to your cherry tree and will require quick action to contain. The best prevention against pests and diseases is to keep your tree well-maintained. Inspect branches and leaves regularly and remove any dead or diseased parts. Also, make sure to clean up fallen fruits and leaves to discourage pests from inhabiting the area.
Protecting the Tree from Hot Summers and Windy Conditions
As cherry trees are native to temperate climates, they are susceptible to extreme weather. Potted cherry trees should be protected from hot summers and cold winters. If your tree is placed outdoors, shade and wind protection are necessary. Wind protection should be especially taken into consideration for trees growing in containers, as their shallow roots make them more susceptible to being blown over.
Combatting Soil Compaction and Drainage Issues
Soil compaction can be a problem in potted trees and can cause the roots to suffocate. To combat soil compaction, use aerating tools such as a hand-tiller to break up the soil. It is also a good idea to use a soil mix that includes perlite or other drainage improving material to ensure that the tree will not be overwatered.
Harvesting Your Cherries
Cherries are a delicious and nutritious treat and can be picked when they are plump and have a deep red colour. Be sure to pick the cherries before they become overripe and only pick what you can eat within the day, as cherries tend to spoil quickly after being picked.
Proper Storage and Preservation of Your Cherries
When storing your cherries, make sure to remove any stems, leaves, or other debris that may have come in contact with the fruit. Store in a refrigerator in a tight-lidded container to keep them from spoiling too quickly. To preserve your cherries for longer, you can also freeze them for up to six months.
Providing Adequate Nutrition for Your Cherry Tree
Just like any other plant, cherry trees need the right mix of nutrients to grow healthy and strong. Providing your tree with the right form of nutrients, such as compost or fertilizer, is critical to its development. Regular soil tests can help determine what kind of nutrients it needs.
Maintaining the Health of Your Cherry Tree
Cherry trees require regular care and maintenance. Every year, you should check the tree for signs of disease or pests, prune and trim any dead or diseased branches, and do a soil test to ensure the tree is getting the right mix of nutrients. Regularly aerating the soil can also help keep it from becoming compacted.
Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labour
Once your cherry tree is planted, watered, and fertilized regularly, you can look forward to enjoying the fruits of your labour by harvesting sweet, succulent cherries throughout the summer. Not only do these cherries make delicious treats, they also make an attractive addition to any garden or yard.