How Deep Do You Plant Cherry Trees?

Cherry trees are beautiful and delicious, and planting one in your yard can be a great addition to your garden. However, planting a cherry tree requires some care and attention to ensure that it has the best chance to grow and produce fruit. One of the most important factors to consider when planting a cherry tree is how deep to plant it.

Understanding Cherry Tree Roots

Before we talk about how deep to plant a cherry tree, it's important to understand the root system of these trees. Cherry trees are known for their shallow root systems, which means they need to be planted carefully to ensure that they have access to enough moisture and nutrients to grow properly.

When you plant a cherry tree, it's important to make sure that the roots are spread out evenly and that they have enough space to grow. You should also make sure that the soil you are planting the tree in is loose and moist, so the roots can easily absorb the nutrients they need.

How Deep to Plant Cherry Trees

When it comes to planting cherry trees, the general rule of thumb is to plant them so that the graft union is about two inches above the soil line. The graft union is the point where the scion (or top part of the tree) is connected to the rootstock (or bottom part of the tree).

If you plant the cherry tree too deep, the scion is likely to rot, and the tree will not grow properly. On the other hand, if you plant it too shallow, the roots will not have enough room to grow and may become exposed to the elements, which could cause the tree to die.

When planting your cherry tree, make sure you dig a hole that is deep enough to accommodate the roots without damaging them. You should also make sure that the hole is wide enough to hold the tree in place and that the soil is loose and moist.

Other Considerations When Planting Cherry Trees

There are a few other things to consider when planting a cherry tree to ensure that it has the best chance to grow and produce fruit. For example:

Make sure the tree is planted in a sunny area with good drainage

Water the tree regularly and deeply, especially during the first few years of its life

Fertilize the tree regularly, using a fertilizer that is specially formulated for fruit trees

By taking care to properly plant and care for your cherry tree, you can enjoy its beauty and delicious fruit for years to come. And by knowing how deep to plant it, you can ensure that it has the best possible chance to thrive.