Few trees have such an iconic place in the world of horticulture like the cherished cherry tree. Beloved for centuries, the cherry tree is a deciduous tree that is known for it’s profusion of white and pink blossom in the late spring months along with its bright red fruit in summertime. The deciduous cherry tree is native to Japan and China, although some varieties can be found growing in other parts of the world. Its popularity is due to its gorgeous display of flowers and of course, the sweet fruit it bears later in the year.
The cherry tree is a type of woody plant that falls into a classification of trees known as deciduous trees. Deciduous trees can be identified by their leaves, which turn bright colors and then fall off in the fall. The cherry tree is unique in that it tends to bloom and set fruit within two months of the leaves changing their colors and their dropping off. This helps to ensure a plentiful harvest of sweet red fruit in the summer months.
Deciduous trees are well adapted for the cooler seasons and are capable of surviving temperatures well below freezing as well as times of drought. They are able to do this through a process of dormancy, which slows down the activity of their cells and allows them to survive. During periods of dormancy, deciduous trees use the resources they’ve stored over the previous growing season to prepare for the winter. Once the spring comes around, they use these resources to jumpstart their next growth cycle.
Experts agree that despite their tendency to lose their foliage in the fall, cherry trees are still quite easy to take care of and manage. They have a low maintenance requirement and are quite hardy in comparison to other trees. They also have a high resistance to disease and pests, which further highlights their appeal as an ornamental tree. Cherry trees require little fertilizers and are drought-resistant, and can thrive in a variety of soils.
From a horticultural point of view, cherry trees can be a great addition to any backyard setting. They boast an attractive shape, glossy and smooth leaves, which come in a variety of colors, and of course those beautiful blossoms in the spring. Furthermore, their fruit is a much sought-after commodity and when fairly cared for, cherries produced from your own cherry tree can taste much sweeter and be much more flavoursome than those bought from a store.
When considering adding a cherry tree to your own garden, it is important to note that the species will vary depending on the climate. Generally speaking, cultivars that are best suited to the milder climates found in the UK are likely to include Prunus avium, Prunus cerasus and the Prunus the French, Jommtard and Maria varieties. If your climate is more extreme, then there are wild cherry trees, such as Prunus mahaleb and Prunus padus, which are known to withstand colder temperatures and are robust for those gardens located within an agricultural environment.
In conclusion, the decision of whether or not to purchase a cherry tree is up to you, but it is clear that they offer many benefits in the right environment. From a long-term perspective, it is reasonable to assume that such a tree will give you years of enjoyment and pleasure as you watch it grow and bloom.
Climate Requirements
The climate requirements of a cherry tree are critical to the plant’s growth. When buying a cherry tree, be sure to know what type best suits your climate. There are two basic types of cherry trees, the European and the American. The European trees are better suited for drier climates with cool summers and cold winters, such as the Pacific Northwest. The American type is more suited for wetter climates with hot summers, such as the South. In either case, the tree should be planted in well-draining soil and receive at least 6-8 hours of full sunlight.
Pruning is important for ensuring a more productive crop and to shape the overall structure of the tree. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Neutral pruning cuts should be used to encourage branch growth and to remove diseased or dead branches. Heavier pruning cuts may be needed to open up the center of the tree or to reduce its size. A rule of thumb is to never remove more than a third of the live branches.
Most cherry trees produce fruit on spurs, which are clusters of buds. These can be located on young shoots or on older branches, but should never be pruned off. Thinning is an important process which removes the excess fruit to prevent overcrowding and can also be done in late winter or early spring. It should be done before the fruit reaches full size, usually when its size is slightly less than a dime.
Fertilization is also necessary for ensuring a good harvest. It should be carried out every two to four weeks, starting when the buds begin to appear and up to the early harvest. An organic fertilizer is best as it does not contain chemicals that could damage the tree. Mulching is also beneficial, as it helps retain moisture and keep weeds away. Mulch should be applied around the tree, but not against the trunk to prevent it from getting too wet.
Harvesting and Eating
Once a cherry tree is established, it should produce fruit within 3-4 years. The fruit will ripen between late July and early August and will turn a deep red colour when it is ready to be harvested. It is important to note that cherries tend to ripen all at once, so its best to plan ahead of time how much fruit you need and be ready to pick it all at once. The ripe cherries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Cherries can be enjoyed in many different ways. Fresh cherries are sweet and flavorful, and can be eaten as-is, baked into pies and pastries, added to smoothies and oatmeal, or even turned into jams and jellies. Dried cherries make a great snack, while frozen cherries can be used to make frozen desserts such as ice cream. And lastly, cherry juice is a great way to get a sweet drink without the added sugars.
Cherries are also a nutritional powerhouse, packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Studies have linked regular consumption of cherries to many health benefits, such as reduced inflammation, improved digestion, and better heart health. So not only are they delicious, but they are also incredibly good for you!
Pests and Diseases
Like all fruit trees, cherry trees can be affected by pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, which chew on the foliage, and scale, which suck the sap from the branches. Diseases can include bacterial canker and brown rot, both of which can cause the tree to drop its fruit prematurely. To prevent pests and diseases, it is important to practice preventive measures such as proper sanitation, regular inspections, and regular application of chemical treatments.
The most effective way to control a pest or disease is by treating it as soon as it appears. If caught early, treatments are usually easy and straightforward. The most common treatments involve water blasting and chemical pesticides, although the latter should be used sparingly, and only after consultation with an expert. Other remedies include introducing beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which will help to naturally control the pests.
Without the proper care, a cherry tree can become diseased and die. Therefore, it is important to take preventative measures such as planting disease resistant varieties and regular inspections to ensure the health of the tree. Following proper care instructions and visits from a certified arborist or plant doctor are also recommended.
Conclusion
As you can see, cherry trees are an attractive addition to any garden and can provide an abundance of sweet and delicious fruit. With the right climate, soil, and care, these trees can last for decades and provide years of enjoyment. While cherry trees can be susceptible to pests and diseases, these can usually be prevented or dealt with if caught early. With the right information and dedication, a deciduous cherry tree can be a great addition to any garden.
