How to Plant a Cherry Tree in UK

Cherry trees are a beautiful addition to any garden in the UK. Not only do they produce delicious fruit, but they also provide stunning spring blooms. Here's how you can plant your own cherry tree:

Choose your cherry tree variety

Before you start digging, it's essential to select the right variety of cherry tree for your climate zone. The UK is divided into hardiness zones ranging from 6a to 9b. Cheery trees that do well in the UK include Stella, Lapins, Morello, and Early Rivers. You can find out more about your local climate zones through the Royal Horticultural Society.

Prepare the soil

Cherry trees thrive in well-draining soil. They prefer mildly acidic soil, and a pH between 6.0 and 7.0 is optimal. Test the soil in the area where you would like to plant your cherry tree to determine its acidity, and add organic matter or amend the soil as needed to achieve the right pH. Break up any large clumps of soil and remove any weeds.

The right time to plant your cherry tree

Cherry trees should be planted when they are dormant, which can be between autumn and early spring. It's best to avoid planting when the ground is frozen or when it is excessively wet. Planting in the autumn is an excellent option, as the soil is still warm from the summer sun, and there is enough time to establish roots before winter.

Choose a planting spot

Cherry trees need at least six hours of sun per day. They also prefer shelter from strong winds. Additionally, be sure to plant your cherry tree away from overhead power lines, buildings, or other obstructions that could interfere with its growth or access to sunlight.

Planting your cherry tree

Once you've chosen your cherry tree variety and planting spot, it's time to plant! Dig a hole that is twice as wide and slightly deeper than the root ball. Loosen the soil around the edges of the hole to encourage root growth. Place the cherry tree in the hole and backfill it with soil, making sure to tamp the soil down gently using your foot. Water your cherry tree thoroughly to ensure that the soil settles around the roots, and then mulch around the base of the tree to keep moisture in and weeds out.

Caring for your cherry tree

Caring for your cherry tree involves regular watering, pruning, and fertilization. Water your cherry tree once or twice a week in the first year or so to promote healthy root growth. Prune your cherry tree in the dormant season, removing any dead or diseased branches. Fertilize your cherry tree once a year in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to promote healthy growth, and to encourage flowering and fruiting.

By following these tips, you can plant your own cherry tree and enjoy the benefits of delicious fruit and stunning spring blooms for years to come. Happy planting!