Most people associate cherry trees with sweet treats and delightful desserts. But, technically the term ‘cherry tree’ applies to multiple species of trees in the Prunus genus. Generally, cherry trees are divided into two main categories, including sweet cherries and sour cherries. Both are perennial trees that bloom and bear unique fruits annually.
When it comes to planting cherry trees, timing is crucial for a successful harvest. You’ll want to ensure the frost has passed and the weather is warm enough for the sapling to take root in proper soil. The ideal time to plant a cherry tree depends on the region and climate, but generally falls in the late winter to early springtime. Before planting your cherry tree, prepare the soil by ensuring it is rich with much-needed nutrients such as phosphorus and nitrogen. Dig the area with an approximate two-foot circumference for the tree.
It’s also important to remember the spacing and orientation of each cherry tree in the orchard. Many cherry trees are grafted onto a robust root system and need ample room to grow. Sour cherries require 20 feet of spacing; sweet cherries require 30 feet of spacing. When planting cherry trees, also factor in the height and spread of the trees at full maturity so they do not crowd each other when they are full-grown.
When growing a cherry tree in a garden, the right balance of compost, organic matter and soil needs to be established. To create the ideal planting environment, mix one part soil, one part fertiliser and one part organic material. Later, when the cherry tree has matured, prune and trim it regularly. Pruning helps to maintain the size of the tree as well as control pests and encourage blossoms.
Finally, it’s worth noting that cherry trees require supplemental watering during the summer months. Ensure the soil around the base of the cherry tree remains aerated for natural drainage and keep the roots moist with regularly scheduled waterings.
Fertilizing a Cherry Tree
To aid in flower and leaf production, many recommend fertilizing the cherry tree with a blend of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. To accurately determine the fertilizer blend, consult a soil test in the region and follow the recommended amounts. But, avoid applying fertilizer within three months of planting as it can be too harsh for the young cherry tree.
It’s also beneficial to use an organic fertilizer which can help create an environment for beneficial microbial activity and promote minerals for better nutrient uptake in the tree. Lastly, fertilizing is best done during the early summer months.
Weather Challenges to Cherry Trees
The climate in which the cherry trees are grown can have a major impact on their growth and development. For instance, some cherry trees are damaged when temperatures dip below 15 degrees Fahrenheit, while others can survive temperatures as low as -20F. The type of cherry tree and where it’s planted will tell you if colder winters will be an issue.
When planting a cherry tree in a region with cold winters, always select a hardy variety. Some cherry trees are adapted to colder temperatures and can withstand a deep freeze. But, if there is still concern the cherry tree will not survive the climate, start small and build up an orchard resistant to cold days.
Common Cherry Tree Pests & Diseases
Even with careful planning, cherry trees are susceptible to pests and diseases. Common pests include aphids, caterpillars, and worms. To control these insects, use a spray with organic or botanical insecticides and ensure an integrated pest management system is in place.
Common diseases that affect cherry trees include canker, twig blight, brown rot, powdery mildew, and crown gall. To properly treat cherry tree diseases, identify the particular type of disease, and then act accordingly. This includes implementing fungicides and pruning away infected parts.
Protecting a Cherry Tree
If the cherry tree is going to be exposed to direct sunlight all day, then it needs additional protection. For example, a thin layer of mulch at the base of the trunk can help keep the soil moist and cool while also shielding the roots from extreme temperatures. In addition, wide-spaced trellises can help provide additional shade.
To protect against extreme temperatures, create a barrier by wrapping the trunk with a quality wrap and burlap or use a sprayer with a mixture of synthetic hormones that keep the bark hydrated. Furthermore, for colder climates, planting the cherry trees in a south-facing orientation can help give the tree the most sun without over-exposing it to extreme temperatures.
Cherry Tree Harvesting Process
Once the cherry trees have reached maturity, they can start producing fruit. This generally happens anywhere from four to seven years after planting. The exact time depends on the specific varieties and environment. The cherry harvesting process starts in late spring or early summer when the cherries are ripe and ready for picking.
It’s best to pick cherries at the peak ripeness to ensure a juicy and tasty harvest. As cherries ripen, the stem length shrinks and the colour of the fruit deepens. Additionally, cherry trees can provide multiple harvests throughout the spring and summer months with proper pruning and maintenance.
Nutritional Benefits of Cherry Trees
It’s no secret that cherries are a delicious treat. But, there are many nutritional benefits associated with cherries, too. Studies show that cherries, both sweet and sour, contain many key minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. For instance, sweet cherries possess high levels of potassium, vitamin C and magnesium, while sour cherries are a great source of zinc, vitamin A and flavonoids.
Cherry trees also provide important health benefits such as reducing inflammation, promoting brain health and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels. Such benefits are due to cherries’ high content of polyphenols which are plant compounds that have antioxidant properties. It’s important to keep in mind that these benefits can vary depending on the ripeness of the fruit and how it’s prepared.
Best Practices for Growing Cherry Trees
For a successful harvest of cherries, there are some key best practices that need to be taken into account. This includes planting the cherry tree in a supportive environment with the right nutrients, using the best fertilizer blend, and following a regular pruning schedule. In addition, for cold climates, choosing a hardy variety and wrapping the trunk for extra protection will ensure the cherry tree survives and bears fruit with no issues.
When it comes to growing cherry trees, patience is of the utmost importance. But, following the right steps and taking time to nurture the tree will help create an atmosphere for a bumper harvest. With the right timing, soil preparation and gardening techniques, growing cherry trees will yield Fruit and desserts for years to come.
Picking the Perfect Cherry Tree
Now that you know the basics of planting and caring for a cherry tree, the next step is to select the right cherry tree for your home or garden. Choose a cherry tree based on the zone in which it will be planted – sweet and sour cherry trees do best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5 – 8. Also, select the cherry tree by the number of hours of bright sunshine the area receives during peak season — sweet cherries need over 1,000 hours of sunshine exposure.
Once the environment and location of the cherry tree has been considered, it’s important to decide between sweet and sour cherry varieties to best fit person preferences. Sour cherries are tangy, less sweet and best for pies and fruit tarts. Sweet cherries, on the other hand, are perfect for fresh eating, jams and jellies. Whichever cherry variety is chosen, ensure that they are ready to go — look for signs of healthy leaves and bark, as well as a strong tree trunk.
Flavorful Possibilities with a Cherry Tree
One of the most enjoyable reasons to grow a cherry tree is to experience the joy of picking your own juicy cherries and turning them into something delicious. There are many imaginative and diverse recipes that can be created with any spring and summer harvest. Here are just a few ideas to inspire your next cherry-based endeavor.
One popular recipe is a sweet cherry tart. This consists of a homemade or store-bought pastry crust filled with fresh cherries and topped with a mixture of sugar and cornstarch for thickening. Or, opt for a savory-sweet cherry bruschetta: toast a slice of baguette, and top with ricotta, cherries and a drizzle of olive oil. Plus, for cooking enthusiasts, cherries also make a great addition to savory dishes like pork, duck or chicken.
Conclusion
Growing cherry trees can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience. Though sometimes tricky due to the delicate nature of cherries, with the right techniques, patience and care, anyone can create an orchard of cherry trees and produce a plentiful bounty. When planting a cherry tree, timing is a key factor. Generally, late winter or early spring is the ideal planting time, but check with your local agricultural extension for the exact time. Lastly, don’t forget to consult with a soil test to ensure you are providing the tree with the correct nutrients and fertilizer to help produce a thriving harvest!
