How Do You Plant Cherry Trees

Planting cherry trees is an excellent way to add beauty to your backyard, enjoy fresh cherries, and add value to any home. Cherry trees are easy to grow, and with a little bit of care, they can thrive for many years. In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to follow to plant cherry trees successfully.

Choose a Suitable Location

The first step to planting cherry trees is finding a suitable location in your garden. Cherry trees require good quality soil, plenty of sunlight, and good drainage. Choose a spot that receives at least six hours of sunlight daily, and avoid planting in areas that are prone to flooding.

If you have limited space, you can plant dwarf cherry trees that only grow up to six feet tall. However, if you have more space, you can plant standard cherry trees that can grow up to 30 feet tall. Consider the size of the tree you want to plant before you choose the location.

Prepare the Soil

Cherry trees grow best in well-drained, deep, and fertile soil. Test the soil pH level to determine the soil's acidity, and add amendments such as organic matter or lime if required to adjust the pH level to between 6.0 and 6.5. This range is ideal for growing cherry trees.

After you amend the soil, add compost, manure, or slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients for the tree. Mix these amendments into the soil to a depth of 12 to 18 inches to create a planting bed for the cherry tree.

Plant the Tree

Once you have prepared the soil, it is time to plant the cherry tree. Before planting, prune any damaged or unhealthy roots, and soak the roots in water for a few hours. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the root system and place the cherry tree in the center of the hole. The graft union should be two inches above the soil level.

Backfill the hole with soil and press down firmly to make sure the tree stands straight. Water the tree thoroughly, and add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and control weeds.

Care for the Tree

After planting the cherry tree, it is important to care for it to promote healthy growth. Water the tree regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Cherry trees require up to one inch of water per week.

Prune the tree annually to remove dead or crossed branches, and to shape the tree. Pruning also helps promote healthy growth and fruit production. Fertilize the tree annually with a balanced fertilizer to provide nutrients for healthy growth.

In conclusion, planting cherry trees is a rewarding experience that can add value to your home and provide you with delicious cherries. By following these steps, you can successfully plant and care for a cherry tree, and enjoy its beauty and bounty for many years to come.