What Does A Cherry Tree Look Like In The Spring

Appearance

A cherry tree in the spring is a stunning sight. Its branches can reach up to 20 feet, spreading wide and drooping from the weight of the blossoms. The leaves typically haven’t yet emerged, so the tree is covered purely in a mass of delicate white and pink flowers. Cherry blossoms open in layers and are usually in full bloom for just a week or two.

The flowers start off looking like small starbursts of five petals, opening up to five sepals. As they continue to grow, they form into creamy white petals around a circle at the center of the flower, making a beautiful five-point star.

In late spring, after the petals have dropped, green fruits will form, eventually turning a deep, glossy red by the end of the summer. The cherries will be accompanied by gorgeous deep green foliage, a special treat to get to enjoy throughout the summer months.

Varieties

Cherry trees come in a large variety of sizes, shapes and colors. The most common is the Prunus cerasus, also known as tart or sour cherries, which are usually either red or yellow. These are the most popular for making pies, jams, and sauces. As for ornamental varieties, the Prunus avium are the sweet cherries, also known as gean or mazzard. This variety has white and pink blooms, followed by red fruits.

The Yoshino cherry is a popular ornamental species with white flowers, the double-flowering variety having the most beautiful display. This tree is native to Japan and it is the most widely praised type of cherry tree. It is often planted in parks and other public areas, its flowers a symbol of spring renewal.

Growth Habits

Cherry trees grow best in slightly acidic soils of the temperate climates. They love the sun and need full exposure for between 6 and 8 hours per day in order to produce plenty of fruit. Cherry trees require regular pruning for both ornamental and health purposes. This includes removing any dead or rubbing branches as well as thinning out the crown of the tree in late winter.

Cherry trees are fast-growing and can produce a harvest in just a few years. If a good crop isn’t expected, the tree will typically bears flowers every year, offering a stunning display of the season’s renewal.

Pollination

Cherry trees require cross pollination in order to produce fruit. The pollen must come from a tree of the same species, or at least a closely related species in the same genus. This means that any two cherry trees are capable of fertilizing each other.

If there is only one cherry tree in the vicinity, bees can still be used to help with the job, however this method may not be as efficient or reliable. One bee hive per 20 trees is usually recommended for optimal results.

Harvesting

To ensure a full, sweet flavor, the fruits should be picked promptly once the color has changed from green to a blackish-red. There is no ‘right’ time to harvest, however most suggest starting early in the season to ensure all fruits have ripened and the majority have been taken off the tree. Once the harvest is complete, the broken branches should be pruned down to aid in recovery.

Cherries are very sensitive to bruising and can spoil quickly, so handle the fruits with extra care. If harvesting and eating fresh, prepare to consume quickly – within 24 hours of picking them.

Companion Planting

To ensure the proper growth of a cherry tree, companion planting is recommended. Garlic and chives help deter pests, and sweet alyssum and cosmos are natural insect repellents. Additionally, borage can repel tomato worms, and oregano helps protect against fungal diseases. Other companion plants such as yarrow, dill and sage can also help attract beneficial insect predators like ladybugs.

Honeybees and other pollinators are attracted to clovers and bush beans, which are great accompaniments to a cherry tree. The spreading foliage of these plants helps to keep the soil moist and also prevents weeds from sprouting up.

Pruning

In order to maintain a healthy cherry tree, it is important to prune during the dormant season. Pruning should involve removing any damaged or diseased parts first before taking away any excess the tree may have. Warmer climates may require twice a year pruning, once during the dormant season and again after flowering.

Pruning helps to keep the tree in a desirable shape and size, as well as aiding in increasing fruit production. It is also essential in keeping the tree in good health as it helps to get rid of any diseased or deadwood that can harbor pests and diseases.

Pest Control

When it comes to keeping the cherry tree healthy, pest control is especially important. There is a wide variety of insects and pathogens that can afflict cherry trees, some of which can be quite destructive. Common cherry tree pests include caterpillars, aphids, and scale insects, although predatory wasps and ladybugs can be helpful in controlling them.

Fungal diseases, like black knot and powdery mildew, can also be a problem if not properly treated by pruning during the dormant season. Applying organic fungicides and sulfur at the recommended times during the growing season should help ward off any fungal problems.

Nutrition

Cherries are not only beautiful and delicious, but also packed full of nutritional benefits as well. They are a great source of vitamins C and A, as well as essential minerals like calcium and magnesium. In addition, cherries are high in fiber, known for aiding in digestion and helping to keep blood sugar levels stable.

Since cherries can spoil quickly, freezing or canning the fruits is a great way to enjoy them throughout the year. Cherries can be added to smoothies and salads, baked into a variety of desserts, and even used in main dishes. Cherries can easily be thrown into savory dishes, adding both taste and nutrition to any meal.

Uses

Cherry trees have been a beloved species for centuries and have been planted in gardens and orchards throughout the world. In addition to their edible fruit, they are great shade trees and can often be used to lower air temperatures in the outdoors. Their flowers can also be used for decoration or for medicinal purposes.

Cherry wood is a sought after material for furniture and woodwork, with its reddish tones and its resistance to decay. The wood is harder and more durable than many other types of wood, and can be found in many fine pieces of furniture. Trimmings from the tree can also be used for fuel.

Gordon Wesson is an environmentalist and author who lives in the Pacific Northwest. He has been writing for many years about topics related to trees, the environment, and sustainability. In particular, he is passionate about educating people on the importance of living in harmony with the environment and preserving natural spaces. He often speaks at conferences and events around the country to share his knowledge with others. His dedication to protecting our planet makes him one of the leading voices in his field today.

Leave a Comment