Where to Plant a Morello Cherry Tree

Morello cherry trees are popular fruit trees in home gardens because they produce tart cherries that are perfect for jams, pies, and sauces. However, to ensure that your morello cherry tree thrives and bears fruit, you need to plant it in the right location. Here are some factors to consider when choosing a spot for your morello cherry tree:

Soil Type

Morello cherry trees prefer well-drained soils that are slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0 to 6.8. They do not tolerate heavy, poorly-drained soils or excessively alkaline soils. Therefore, before planting your morello cherry tree, test your soil pH and texture to determine whether it is suitable for the tree. You can use a soil testing kit or send a soil sample to a qualified lab for analysis. If your soil pH is too high, you can amend it by adding elemental sulfur or other soil acidifiers. If your soil is heavy or clayey, you can improve its drainage by adding organic matter such as compost, peat moss, or aged manure.

Sunlight Exposure

Morello cherry trees need full sunlight to thrive and produce abundant fruit. Therefore, choose a planting location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight per day. Avoid planting your tree in shaded areas, under overhanging branches, or next to tall buildings or fences that block the sun's rays. If you have limited space, you can consider planting your morello cherry tree near other trees or structures that cast some shade in the afternoon, but not in the morning, when sunlight is most important.

Winter Hardiness

Morello cherry trees are hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9, which means they can withstand winter temperatures as low as -30°F (-34°C) to 20°F (-6°C). However, they do not tolerate late spring frosts or early fall freezes, which can damage the blossoms or ripening fruit. Therefore, choose a planting location that is sheltered from cold winds and has good air drainage. Avoid planting your morello cherry tree in low-lying areas or frost pockets where cold air accumulates. If your area is prone to late frosts, you can consider planting your tree on a slope, a raised bed, or a south-facing slope that warms up faster.

Pollination

Morello cherry trees are self-sterile, which means they require cross-pollination with another cherry tree to produce fruits. Therefore, you need to plant at least two morello cherry trees or other cherry varieties that bloom at the same time within 100 feet of each other for good pollination. You can also plant crabapple, peach, plum, or apricot trees as pollinators, as they bloom at the same time as cherry trees and attract cherry blossom bees.

Spacing and Planting Tips

Morello cherry trees can grow up to 20 feet tall and have a spreading habit, so make sure you allow enough space for their mature size. The recommended spacing between trees is 15 to 20 feet apart. When planting your morello cherry tree, dig a hole slightly larger and deeper than the rootball and loosen the soil at the bottom. Set the tree in the hole so that the graft union (the bulge or bend in the trunk) is 2 to 3 inches above the soil level. Backfill the hole with amended soil and tamp it down gently. Water the tree thoroughly and mulch the soil with 2 to 4 inches of organic mulch such as wood chips, straw, or shredded leaves to retain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.

In conclusion, planting a morello cherry tree requires careful consideration of several factors such as soil type, sun exposure, winter hardiness, pollination, and spacing. By choosing the right location and following proper planting and care techniques, you can enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor for many years to come.