How to Plant Chokecherry Trees

Chokecherry trees are beautiful, hardy trees that are perfect for adding some shade and beauty to any landscape. They are also a great source of fruit that can be used for jam, jelly, syrup, and other delicious treats. If you're thinking about planting some chokecherry trees on your property, here's everything you need to know to get started.

Choose the Right Location

The first thing you'll need to do is choose a good location for your chokecherry trees. These trees prefer full sun and moist, well-drained soil. They can tolerate some shade, but they won't produce as much fruit in a shady area.

You'll also want to make sure that the location you choose has enough space for your trees to grow. Chokecherry trees can reach heights of up to 20 feet and widths of up to 15 feet, so plan accordingly.

Planting the Trees

Once you've chosen the perfect location for your chokecherry trees, it's time to get planting. Here's how:

Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of your tree, but the same depth.

Remove any rocks or debris from the hole.

Fill the hole with water and let it drain.

Place your tree in the hole and make sure it's level.

Backfill the hole with soil and water the tree again.

Mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.

Care for Your Trees

After you've planted your chokecherry trees, it's important to take care of them to ensure they grow strong and healthy. Here are some tips:

Water your trees regularly, especially during dry spells.

Fertilize your trees in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer.

Prune your trees in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged branches and to shape the tree.

Watch for pests and diseases and take action if necessary.

Harvesting Your Fruit

Chokecherry trees typically produce fruit in the late summer. The fruit is ready to be picked when it's dark purple and slightly soft to the touch.

Once you've harvested your fruit, you can use it for a variety of purposes. Here are some ideas:

Make chokecherry jelly, jam, or syrup.

Use the fruit to make a fruit leather or a dried fruit snack.

Freeze the fruit to use later in smoothies or baking.

Conclusion

Planting and growing chokecherry trees is a fun and rewarding experience that can provide you with delicious fruit and a beautiful tree. With a little bit of care and attention, your chokecherries will thrive and be a great addition to your landscape.