How Close to Plant Cherry Trees for Cross Pollination

Cherry trees are known for their beautiful flowers and delicious fruit. However, to produce a good crop of cherries, the trees must be pollinated. While some cherry trees are self-fertile and can produce fruit without cross-pollination, most cherry trees need another variety of cherry tree nearby to help with pollination. Therefore, it’s important to understand how close to plant cherry trees for cross pollination.

What is Cross Pollination?

Cross pollination is the process of transferring pollen from the flowers of one tree to another tree’s flowers. This process is important for fruit trees, as it allows the trees to bear fruit. Cross pollination can occur by wind, insects, birds, or even humans, but for cherry trees, birds and insects are the primary pollinators.

Cherry Trees That Need Cross Pollination

Most sweet cherry varieties do not self-pollinate well and need a second tree for cross pollination. Some examples of cherry trees that need cross pollination include the Bing cherry, Rainier cherry, and Lapins cherry. Tart cherry trees, such as the Montmorency cherry, do not need cross pollination and can self-fertilize.

Distance to Plant Cherry Trees for Cross Pollination

Cherry trees that need cross pollination should be planted within 100 feet of each other. However, the ideal distance to plant the trees will depend on a variety of factors, including the cultivar, rootstock, climate, and more. In general, planting the trees closer together will increase the chance of successful pollination. If the trees are too far apart, pollinating insects or birds may not visit both trees, resulting in a reduced crop.

How Many Trees for Cross Pollination?

If you have a small space, you may only be able to plant one or two cherry trees. In that case, it’s important to choose cultivars that are able to self-pollinate or cross-pollinate with nearby trees. If you have space for multiple trees, it’s best to plant at least two different varieties of cherry trees to increase the likelihood of successful cross pollination. Ideally, three or four different cherry tree varieties should be planted to maximize fruit production.

Care for Cherry Trees

Once the cherry trees are planted, it’s important to care for them properly to ensure a bountiful harvest. Cherry trees need well-drained soil, plenty of sunlight, and regular watering. They should be pruned regularly to promote healthy growth and fruit production. In addition, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches to prevent the spread of disease. Finally, avoid using pesticides that harm pollinators, as this can reduce the number of bees, butterflies, and other insects that visit your trees.

Conclusion

If you want to grow cherries, it’s important to understand how close to plant cherry trees for cross pollination. Cherry trees that need cross pollination should be planted within 100 feet of each other. Planting multiple varieties of cherry trees will increase the chance of successful pollination and maximize fruit production. With proper care, your cherry trees will produce delicious fruit for many years to come.