How to Plant Cherry Seeds from Store Bought Cherries

Introduction

Cherries are a popular fruit with a delicious flavor that makes them a favorite among many people. If you are a fan of cherries, planting their seeds can be a great idea. This is because you can grow your cherry trees and enjoy fresh fruits from your garden. In this article, we will guide you on how to plant cherry seeds from store-bought cherries.

Preparing the cherry seeds

The first step in planting cherry seeds is to choose ripe cherries from your local store. Ensure the cherry seeds are intact and have not been damaged. Wash the cherry seeds thoroughly in clean water to remove any fleshy residues that may be present.

After washing, lay the cherry seeds on a paper towel to dry. During this step, it is essential to ensure the cherry seeds do not germinate since this will affect their growth. To achieve this, use a paper towel to remove excess water from the cherry seeds.

Stratification process

The stratification process involves preparing the cherry seeds for germination. Cherry seeds have a hard outer shell that protects them from harsh temperatures and conditions. To prepare the cherry seeds for germination, you need to break this hard outer shell.

One way to break the hard outer shell is to expose the cherry seeds to a winter environment. You can achieve this by stratifying the cherry seeds in the refrigerator. Begin by wrapping the cherry seeds in a damp paper towel and place them in a sealed plastic bag.

Store the cherry seeds in the refrigerator for about 2-3 months to simulate winter conditions. During this time, the cherry seeds will be exposed to cold temperatures that will help break their hard outer shell.

Planting cherry seeds

After the stratification process, remove the cherry seeds from the refrigerator and allow them to reach room temperature. For optimal growth, ensure that you plant the cherry seeds in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients.

Make a hole in the soil about one inch deep and place the cherry seed in the hole. Cover the hole with soil and press it down gently to remove any air. Water the soil lightly to keep it moist but not soggy.

Care and maintenance

After planting the cherry seeds, they will require proper care and maintenance to grow into healthy cherry trees. Some of the essential care practices include:

- Watering regularly to keep the soil moist but not water-logged

- Providing adequate sunlight to the cherry seeds for optimal growth

- Fertilizing the soil occasionally to provide adequate nutrients for growth

- Pruning the cherry trees to avoid overcrowding and to encourage growth

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting cherry seeds from store-bought cherries is a simple and rewarding process. With proper care and maintenance, you can grow your cherry trees and enjoy fresh fruits from your garden. Remember to follow the above steps to ensure your cherry seeds germinate and grow into healthy cherry trees.