How to plant a Royal Lee cherry tree

Cherry trees are a beautiful addition to any garden or orchard. They provide shade, fruit, and a lovely aesthetic appeal. If you're interested in planting a cherry tree, the Royal Lee variety is a popular choice for its sweet flavor and compact size. Here are some steps to follow when planting a Royal Lee cherry tree.

Step 1: Choose a planting location

The first step in planting a Royal Lee cherry tree is to choose a suitable location. The tree needs full sun exposure and well-draining soil. It's important to choose a spot that receives at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight per day. Also, make sure the soil isn't too wet, as cherry trees don't like standing water.

Step 2: Prepare the soil

After you've chosen a location, it's time to prepare the soil. Dig a hole that's at least twice as wide and deep as the tree's root ball. Mix some organic matter, such as compost or manure, into the soil to improve its nutrient content. You can also add some bone meal or other phosphorus-rich fertilizer to give the tree a strong start.

Step 3: Plant the tree

Now it's time to plant the Royal Lee cherry tree. Carefully remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place the tree in the hole and make sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil and tamp it down lightly to remove any air pockets.

Step 4: Water the tree

After planting the tree, it's important to water it thoroughly. Give the tree a good soaking, making sure the soil is moist all the way down to the bottom of the hole. Water the tree at least once a week for the first year, and adjust the frequency based on rainfall and soil moisture levels.

Step 5: Mulch and fertilize

To help the tree retain moisture and suppress weeds, add a layer of mulch around the base of the trunk. You can use organic materials, such as bark chips or straw, for this purpose. In addition, apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 blend, in the spring and fall to provide the tree with nutrients.

Step 6: Prune the tree

To encourage the tree to grow a strong structure and produce more fruit, it's important to prune it regularly. During the first few years after planting, remove any broken or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Also, remove any suckers that are growing from the trunk.

Step 7: Harvest the fruit

Once the tree is mature and producing fruit, it's time to harvest it. Cherries usually ripen in late spring or early summer, depending on the climate. Be sure to pick the fruit when it's fully ripe, as unripe cherries won't ripen off the tree. Store the cherries in a cool, dry place until you're ready to eat them.

Overall, planting a Royal Lee cherry tree is a rewarding and enjoyable experience. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious, sweet cherries for many years to come.