How to Plant Cherry Trees in Backyard

If you're interested in cultivating cherry trees in your backyard, you've made a wonderful decision! The beauty of cherry trees coupled with their tasty fruits can transform your backyard into your own piece of heaven on earth. However, growing cherry trees requires more than just planting them. Here's a step-by-step guide to planting cherry trees in your backyard:

Step 1: Choose the Right Cherry Tree Variety

The first step to planting cherry trees is to decide on the variety you want to grow. Depending on your climate, soil type, and personal preference, some cherry tree varieties may be better suited for your backyard than others. For instance, sweet cherries, sour cherries, and dwarf cherry trees are all popular options, but each has a different set of growing requirements. Do your research to pick the right one for your backyard.

Step 2: Select the Right Location

Once you've picked your cherry tree variety, choose a sunny spot in your backyard where it can thrive. Cherry trees need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to produce delicious fruits. Also, ensure the location has well-draining soil and is protected from strong winds. Cherry trees do not do well in waterlogged or windy areas.

Step 3: Prepare the Soil

Preparation of soil is an essential aspect of planting cherry trees. Cherry trees prefer soil that is slightly acidic with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. If your backyard soil is too alkaline or too acidic, add compost, peat moss, or lime to adjust the soil's pH. Additionally, loosen the soil to a depth of 2 feet to help with drainage and allow the roots to penetrate the ground easily.

Step 4: Plant the Cherry Tree

Now that you've prepared the soil, it's time to plant your cherry tree. Dig a hole that is at least twice as wide and deep as the tree's root ball. Then, carefully place the tree in the hole, ensuring that it's at the same depth as the soil level of the pot. Fill the hole with soil and press it gently around the tree to eliminate air pockets.

Step 5: Water the Tree

Water your newly planted cherry tree immediately after planting to help it settle well into the soil. Cherry trees need sufficient water to grow healthy and produce fruit, especially during the first 1-2 years after planting. Water once or twice a week during dry periods, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged.

Step 6: Fertilize the Tree

Cherry trees need specific nutrients to grow healthy, and soil deficiencies can cause stunted growth, a lower yield, or disease. Feed your cherry tree with a balanced fertilizer once every growing season to ensure it gets the essential nutrients. Apply a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12 fertilizer around the tree's base, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 7: Prune the Tree

Pruning ensures cherry trees grow into a robust shape, produce more fruit, and are disease-free. Begin pruning in the second year after planting by cutting off dead wood and crossing branches to allow air to circulate around the tree's center. Prune during late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

With these basic steps, you're well on your way to planting a beautiful and fruitful cherry tree in your backyard! Remember to follow the proper maintenance practices to keep your cherry tree healthy and productive for many seasons to come.