When to Plant Cherry Trees in Michigan

Michigan is famous for cherry trees and produces around 75% of the U.S. tart cherry crop. Planting cherry trees is an excellent investment for Michigan gardeners and farmers. However, it is important to choose the right time to plant cherry trees to ensure their growth and development. In this article, we will discuss when to plant cherry trees in Michigan.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees

In Michigan, the best time to plant cherry trees is in the early spring, after the ground has thawed, and before the buds start to break. The exact timing will depend on the location in Michigan and the prevailing weather conditions. It is important to wait until the risk of frost has passed and the soil temperature has warmed up to around 45-50°F.

Planting cherry trees in the fall is not recommended in Michigan, as the cold winter temperatures can damage the young saplings. Also, planting cherry trees in the summer can lead to heat stress, which will delay their growth and development.

Choosing the Right Variety

Michigan has a diverse climate and soil type, which makes it important to choose the right cherry tree variety that is well-suited to local conditions. Michigan has many cherry tree varieties, including tart cherries, sweet cherries, and pie cherries.

Tart cherries are the most commonly grown in Michigan, and they are well-suited for the state's harsh climate. They are more disease-resistant than sweet cherries and can tolerate cold winters and hot summers. Sweet cherries, on the other hand, require a more moderate climate and are not recommended for areas with harsh winters.

Preparation and Planting

Before planting cherry trees in Michigan, it is important to prepare the soil by loosening it to a depth of 15-18 inches and removing any weeds. The planting hole should be at least twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate it. Mix in compost, peat moss, or aged manure to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Cherry trees should be planted at least 20-25 feet apart from each other to allow enough space for the root system to grow. After planting, apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and control weeds. Water the tree deeply once a week for the first year to promote healthy growth.

Caring for Cherry Trees in Michigan

Once cherry trees are established, they require regular care and maintenance to produce healthy fruit. Michigan has a humid climate that provides ideal conditions for fungal diseases, such as brown rot and leaf spot. To prevent these diseases, cherry trees should be pruned regularly to increase air circulation and reduce moisture build-up.

Michigan is also prone to spring frosts, which can damage cherry blossoms and reduce crop yields. Protecting cherry trees from frost requires covering them with blankets or tarps during cold nights.

Conclusion

Michigan is an excellent place to grow cherry trees, but it is important to choose the right time to plant and care for them properly. Plant cherry trees in the early spring, choose the right variety, and prepare the soil before planting. Regular care and maintenance, such as pruning and protecting from frost, are necessary to ensure healthy growth and bountiful harvests.