Cherry trees are some of the most delicious fruit trees that you can cultivate in your own yard. Not only are they full of flavor and nutrition, but they also provide vibrant flowers and colorful foliage. For anyone who loves the outdoors and is thinking about planting a cherry tree, it is important to know what to look for to make sure that you are actually buying a cherry tree. Here are some tips to help you tell if you have a cherry tree.
Physical Features
One of the most obvious indicators that you have a cherry tree are the physical features. Cherry trees produce white flowers in the spring, ranging in number from five to ten blooms per cluster. The leaves typically have five or six lobes, with toothed edges and varying sizes, and turn yellow or bronze in the fall. The pendulous, round fruit is typically two to four centimeters wide, dark red, and covered with a waxy sheen. All of these features will help you determine that you have a cherry tree.
Chilling Requirements
Most fruit trees have chilling requirements – certain temperatures the tree must be exposed to in order to produce viable fruit. Most cherry trees require between 900-1500 chill hours, depending on the variety. Chill hours refer to the number of hours temperatures of 45°F are needed for the tree to break dormancy. You can contact a fruit tree specialist near you in order to determine what chilling requirements your cherry tree will need to bear fruit.
Root Stock
When planting a cherry tree, it is important to pay attention to the root stock. Depending on the root stock, cherry trees can produce different fruits, therefore you need to confirm that the root stock of your cherry tree is suitable for the cherry variety you want to grow. The root stock can tell you a lot about the tree, including a potential yield and susceptibility to certain pests. You should always consult a specialist when selecting the root stock for your cherry tree.
Coppicing
Cherry trees can easily be pruned and maintained with annual coppicing. Coppicing is a method of pruning whereby the main stem is cut down to ground level and the resultant shoots of new growth can be harvested as biomass or used to create a multi-stemmed tree. This is an effective method to control the size and shape of the tree, as well as keep it healthy. You should consult with a specialist when pruning your cherry tree, as improper cutting can negatively affect its growth and production of fruit.
Watering
Most cherry trees require regular watering and fertilization throughout their lifespan. Before planting your cherry tree, you should water it regularly in order to ensure that the soil is moist but not water-logged. During the summer months, your cherry tree will require more frequent watering, particularly if there is a lack of rainfall. It is important to ensure that the tree is not under-watered and is adequately hydrated to keep the fruit healthy.
Pest and Disease Control
Cherry trees are vulnerable to pests and diseases, such as aphids and powdery mildew. It is important to monitor your cherry tree for any signs of infestation and take steps to control the pests and diseases quickly to protect the health of the tree. A number of insecticides, fungicides and biological control measures are available to treat pest and diseases, so it is important to consult a specialist for advice as soon as you observe an infestation.
Pollination
Most cherry trees require pollination in order to produce fruit. If you have purchased a self-fertile variety of cherry tree, then it will not require another tree for pollination. However, if you have a non-self-fertile variety, you will need to purchase a pollinator of the same variety and ensure that the trees are planted within 30 feet of each other. Pollination can occur naturally or you can use bee hives to ensure proper pollination.
Fertilization
In order to ensure a healthy, productive cherry tree, it is important to use the right fertilizer. Different varieties of cherries have different fertilizer requirements and it is important to consult a specialist to get the proper advice. In general, cherry trees require fertilizer in the spring and fall. The fertilizer should be applied in a band around the tree, several feet from the trunk, and should be watered in thoroughly to ensure that the nutrients are absorbed by the tree.
Harvesting
When it comes time to harvest your cherries, it is important to do so carefully. A cherry tree should be harvested when the fruit is ripe and ready for picking. The best way to determine whether a cherry is ripe is to gently press down on the cherry with your finger. If the fruit yields to a light pressure, it is ready to be harvested. You can also taste a few cherries to see if they are sweet enough to pick. Cherries must be handled with care during harvest, as they are delicate and can be easily bruised.
Pruning
Pruning your cherry tree on a regular basis is important for its health and productivity. The best way to prune a cherry tree is to remove any dead, diseased, or weak branches and to thin out overcrowded branches. Pruning should be done in the winter months, when the tree is dormant, in order to prevent any potential damage to the tree and its production of fruit. It is important to consult a specialist for advice on the best way to prune your cherry tree.
Storing and Saving Seeds
Once you have harvested your cherries, you may want to store some or save some of the seeds to plant the following year. You can store cherries in the refrigerator, in a cool, dark place, or in a tightly sealed plastic bag. You can also freeze cherries for up to six months. To save cherry seeds, allow the cherry to completely ripen and then remove the seed from the core. Place the seeds in an airtight container and store in a cool, dry location until ready to plant.
Long Term Care
It is important to provide adequate long-term care for your cherry tree in order to ensure its health and productivity. This includes proper nutrition and regular watering. It is also important to mulch the tree to protect the roots from the elements and keep the soil moist. Gently remove any weeds that may be competing for nutrients and water. Regularly inspect the tree for any signs of pests or diseases and take the necessary steps to control them as soon as possible.
