How to Plant a Grafted Cherry Tree

Cherry trees are popular due to their delicious fruit and beautiful flowers, making them ideal for home gardens. Grafting is a process of joining two different cherry tree species to create a new hybrid that will produce fruit with desirable properties, such as resistance to pests and disease. Planting a grafted cherry tree involves some preparation, but the results are worth the effort. Here's what you need to know.

Choose the Right Tree and Location

The first step is to select a grafted cherry tree that suits your needs. Research the different cherry tree varieties available at your local nursery or garden center and choose a grafted tree that will thrive in your climate and soil. Make sure the tree has a healthy root system and no signs of disease such as wilted or yellow leaves. Once you have picked out the tree, select a suitable location for planting.

Cherry trees grow best in well-drained soil with full sun exposure for at least six hours a day. They also need space to grow, as they can reach heights of up to 20 feet, with a trunk diameter of up to one foot. Choose a spot that is clear of other trees, buildings or structures that might shade or harm the tree, and that will allow for adequate soil drainage.

Prepare the Soil and Plant the Tree

Before planting the tree, prepare the soil by removing any weeds or rocks from the planting area, and adding compost or other organic matter to the soil to improve its structure and fertility. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root ball of the tree, and add a layer of well-draining soil at the bottom of the hole.

Place the grafted cherry tree in the center of the hole, with the top of the root ball level with the ground. Fill the hole with soil, tamping it down around the tree to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots and promote root growth.

Care and Maintenance

Once planted, your grafted cherry tree will need regular care and maintenance to ensure its healthy growth and fruit production. Water the tree deeply and thoroughly, especially during dry periods or hot weather, to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

Fertilize the tree once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Prune the tree annually to remove any damaged, diseased, or dead branches, and to shape the tree to the desired size and form.

Protect the tree from pests and disease by inspecting it frequently for signs of damage or infestation, and applying insecticides or fungicides as needed. Cover the tree with bird netting to prevent birds from stealing the cherries before they are ripe.

In Conclusion

Planting a grafted cherry tree can provide you with years of delicious fruit and beautiful flowers. Proper preparation and care are essential for the tree's healthy growth, so choose a suitable location, prepare the soil, and provide the tree with regular maintenance. With a little effort and patience, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor for seasons to come.