How Far Apart Should You Plant Cherry Trees?

Cherry trees are a popular choice for home gardeners and commercial orchards alike. These attractive trees bear delicious fruit and provide a beautiful display of fragrant pink blossoms in the spring. If you are considering planting cherry trees, one of the most important factors to consider is the spacing between the trees. Here's what you need to know about how far apart to plant cherry trees.

Consider Rootstock and Variety

The spacing requirements for cherry trees will largely depend on the rootstock used and the specific variety of cherry tree you are planting. Some varieties grow large while others have a more compact form. The rootstock affects the ultimate size of the tree as well. Semi-dwarf and dwarf rootstocks will result in smaller trees that require less space than standard rootstocks.

Planting Distance for Standard Cherry Trees

If you are planting standard cherry trees on their own rootstocks, you'll need to give them plenty of space. These trees can grow up to 40 feet tall and spread up to 30 feet wide. To give standard cherry trees ample room to grow and thrive, plant them at least 20 to 25 feet apart. This spacing will give each tree adequate sunlight and room for its roots to spread out.

Planting Distance for Semi-dwarf and Dwarf Cherry Trees

Semi-dwarf and dwarf cherry trees, on the other hand, require less space. These trees are smaller, typically growing no more than 15 feet tall and wide. When planting semi-dwarf or dwarf cherry trees, space them 12 to 15 feet apart, giving each tree enough room to mature and produce fruit without crowding its neighbors.

Maximizing Yield with Close Planting

While these spacing recommendations provide the best conditions for cherry trees to grow and thrive, some orchardists experiment with closer planting distances to maximize yield. Planting trees closer together can create a high-density planting system that encourages more fruit production per acre. However, this strategy requires careful attention to pruning and training the trees to keep them manageable.

Final Thoughts

When choosing how far apart to plant cherry trees, it is important to consider the rootstock and variety, as well as the conditions of your particular site. By giving your cherry trees adequate space, you'll allow them to grow and produce fruit to their fullest potential. Consider the benefits of close planting if you are looking to maximize your yield, but be prepared to invest time and effort to maintain a healthy and productive orchard.