How and When to Plant Cherry Trees

Cherry trees are a popular fruit tree that can add beauty to your landscape and provide a tasty treat in the summertime. Planting a cherry tree requires some preparation and planning, but with the right care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest for years to come. In this article, we will guide you through the process of how and when to plant cherry trees.

Choosing a Cherry Tree

Before planting a cherry tree, you need to choose the right variety that will suit your needs. Sweet cherry trees come in two main types: self-fruitful or self-sterile. Self-fruitful cherry trees can produce fruit on their own, while self-sterile cherry trees require a pollinator to produce fruit. Sour cherry trees, on the other hand, are self-fruitful and can produce fruit even without a pollinator.

Additionally, you should consider the size of the tree when it reaches maturity. Most cherry trees can grow up to 25 feet tall and wide, so make sure you have enough space to accommodate the tree's size. Dwarf and semi-dwarf trees are smaller and more manageable, making them a popular choice for backyard gardens.

Preparing the Site

Cherry trees thrive in well-draining soil with a pH ranging from 6.0 to 6.8. The site where you plan to plant the tree should receive full sun for at least six hours a day. If the soil in the planting area is clay or compacted, amend it with organic matter to improve drainage and soil quality.

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the tree's root system. Remove any weeds or grass from around the planting site and create a watering basin around the tree to help retain water.

Planting the Tree

When planting a cherry tree, it is essential to ensure that the graft union (where the scion and rootstock are joined) is above the soil line. If the graft union is below the soil line, the tree can develop rootstock shoots that will take over and eventually kill the scion.

Fill the hole with soil, packing it tightly around the roots to eliminate any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly, and add a layer of mulch around the base to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Caring for Cherry Trees

Like any fruit tree, cherry trees need regular care to thrive. Water the tree deeply once a week during dry weather, and fertilize it in the fall with a balanced fertilizer. Prune the tree in the late winter to remove any dead or diseased branches and shape the tree for optimal fruit production.

Cherry trees are susceptible to a variety of pests and diseases, such as cherry fruit fly and brown rot. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of damage, and take action to control any problems as soon as possible.

Harvesting Cherries

Most cherry trees will start producing fruit within three to five years after planting. Harvest cherries when they are fully ripe, which can be determined by the fruit's color and texture. Sweet cherries are ready to harvest when they turn dark red or purple, while sour cherries are ready when they turn bright red.

Overall, planting a cherry tree requires some effort and patience, but the rewards are well worth it. With the right environment and care, your cherry tree can produce a delicious crop of fruit for years to come.