Introduction
Rainier cherries are a unique type of cherry that is unique to the Pacific Northwest. They are a perfect balance of sweet and tart and commonly used in pies, cobblers, jams, and syrups. The Rainier cherry is becoming increasingly popular and can be harder to find than other types of cherries, making it necessary to know where to buy them.
Selection & Availability
When looking to purchase a Rainier cherry tree, it is important to ensure that you buy the right size and that you purchase it from a reliable source. Since they are native to the Pacific Northwest, Rainier cherry trees are widely available in nurseries in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Idaho, and other states in the region. Generally, Rainier cherry trees can be purchased in one, two, three, and four year old sizes.
Rainier cherry trees need plenty of sunlight and have fairly low water requirements. So, it is important to find one that is appropriate for your climate and soil. It is also important to purchase your tree from a certified or licensed arborist that has experience dealing with the different varieties of cherry trees.
Purchasing Considerations
Purchasing a Rainier cherry tree requires a few considerations beyond finding an appropriate location, size, and variety. First, find a location that has dedicated space for your tree. Rainier cherry trees grow up to 10 feet in height and require adequate space to thrive. It is also important to look for any pests, diseases, or other problems that might affect the quality of your tree, such as holes in the bark, discoloration of the leaves, and so on.
Additionally, inspect your tree for any signs of damage and ensure that it is planted correctly. Place it in an area that receives at least eight hours of direct sunlight and ensure that the soil is amended with organic material before planting. Finally, ensure that your tree is given ample water, but not overly saturated.
Pruning & Care
Pruning is an essential part of caring for a Rainier cherry tree. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring and should be done to open up the canopy and encourage new growth. Proper pruning also helps to keep your trees healthy and can increase fruit production.
Additionally, Rainier cherry trees require regular fertilization and mulching in order to stay healthy. Fertilizers should be applied in late winter or early spring and should be used to supplement the trees’ soil. Mulching should be performed in late winter or early spring and should be done to insulate the trees’ roots and promote healthy growth.
Harvesting
Rainier cherry trees are typically ready for harvesting in mid to late summer. The harvesting season is dependent on the variety of cherry tree and the age of the tree. Generally, it is best to wait until the cherries reach a deep red color and soft texture before harvesting. Be sure to perform a quick inspection of the cherries before picking to ensure they are free of any diseases or pests.
Additionally, it is important to pick the cherries at the right time. If you pick them too soon, they may not reach their optimal sweetness and flavor; however, if you wait too long, they may become overripe and fall off the tree.
Storing & Enjoying
Rainier cherries are best stored in a cool and dry place. To ensure their freshness, they should be refrigerated immediately after harvesting. Rainier cherries can be enjoyed as is or used in a variety of recipes such as jams, syrups, sauces, or pies. They are a delicious and unique way to enjoy the summer’s bounty.