Varieties of Cherry Tree
When it comes to selecting the perfect cherry tree for your garden, it’s hard to know where to start. With so many varieties to choose from, you may feel overwhelmed. Thankfully, knowing the differences among types of cherry trees can help guide you toward the tree that best suits your needs.
In general, there are two main cherry tree varieties: sweet cherries, which are often used for eating and baking, and sour cherries, which are often used for making jams and pies. Both of these varieties come in a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and flavors.
Sweet Cherry Tree Varieties
Sweet cherry trees come in a range of colors and shapes, from dark red to pale yellow. Most sweet cherry trees are larger in size than sour cherry trees, reaching heights of up to 25 feet. Some varieties, such as the Van cherry, can reach heights of up to 30 feet. Sweet cherries are primarily used for eating fresh and baking into pies, tarts, and other desserts. Popular varieties of sweet cherries include:
– Bing
– Royal Ann
– Lambert
– Rainier
– Lapins
– Stella
– Montmorency
Sour Cherry Tree Varieties
Sour cherry trees come in a range of colors and shapes, from dark red to pale yellow. Sour cherries tend to be smaller in size than sweet cherry trees and usually reach heights of up to 10 feet. Sour cherries are mainly used for making jams and sauces, and for adding a tart flavor to desserts. Some of the more popular sour cherry tree varieties include:
– North Star
– Montmorency
– Evans
– Early Richmond
– Santina
– Morello
Climate Requirements
When it comes to selecting a cherry tree, it’s important to consider the tree’s climate requirements. Most cherry trees prefer warmer climates and will not thrive in areas with high levels of freezing temperatures. Some specific cherry tree varieties may require more protection from cold weather than others. For example, sweet cherries, like the Rainier variety, tend to be more cold-hardy than sour cherries.
Pest and Disease Considerations
In addition to climate, it’s important to consider the potential for pests and diseases. While cherry trees are relatively hardy, they can be susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some of the most common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees include:
– Bacterial Canker
– Peach Leaf Curl
– Brown Rot
– Anthracnose
– Fire Blight
– Cedar Apple Rust
– Brown Marmorated Stink Bug
Water Requirements
Finally, cherry trees require regular watering in order to thrive. Depending on the variety, cherry trees need anywhere from one to two inches of water per week. It’s important to water your cherry trees at the root level and avoid getting the tree leaves wet. This will help to minimize the possibility of disease.
Landscape Considerations
When selecting a cherry tree, it’s important to consider the tree’s location in your yard. Cherry trees grow best in full sunlight, but they will tolerate some shade. If a cherry tree is located in an area that is too shaded, the tree may not produce full-sized fruit. As with any tree, it’s important to space your cherry tree far enough away from other trees and buildings, so that it is able to receive adequate air and space for growth.
Fruit Production
Cherry tree fruit production varies depending on the variety of the tree. Most cherry trees bear fruit anywhere from two to five years after planting. Some cherry trees are known for bearing more fruit than others. Sweet cherry trees, like the Bing variety, are known to be particularly fruitful. Sour cherry trees, like the Montmorency variety, produce smaller fruit and a smaller yield.
Tree Maintenance
When selecting a cherry tree, it’s important to consider the amount of maintenance it may require. Most cherry trees require minimal pruning, particularly when young. This can help the tree maintain a symmetrical shape and produce larger fruit. Additionally, cherry trees require regular watering and mulching, along with occasional fertilizing, to ensure proper growth and fruiting. Additionally, the occasional application of insect and disease control products may be necessary.
Organic or Non-Organic
When selecting a cherry tree, it’s important to consider whether you would like to purchase an organic or non-organic variety. Organic cherry trees are grown without the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and herbicides. While organic cherry trees may still require occasional maintenance, they are less likely to be affected by disease and pests. Additionally, non-organic cherry trees may require a higher level of maintenance to ensure proper growth and fruiting.
Cost
When selecting a cherry tree, the cost can be a significant factor. Sweet cherry trees tend to be more expensive than sour cherry trees. Additionally, the cost of cherry trees can vary depending on the variety, size, and health of the tree. It’s important to keep in mind that bigger, healthier trees cost more than smaller, less healthy trees.
Conclusion
Selecting the perfect cherry tree for your yard can be a daunting task. It’s important to consider the variety, climate requirements, pest and disease potential, water requirements, landscape considerations, fruit production, tree maintenance, organic or non-organic, and cost before making your decision. With the right tree selection, you can enjoy many years of delicious cherry treats!
