Do You Need to Plant 2 Cherry Trees to Produce?

Cherry trees are not only beautiful to look at but can also produce sweet, juicy fruit. However, there is a common misconception that you need to plant two cherry trees to get any fruit at all. Let's explore this myth and find out the truth about cherry tree pollination.

What is Cherry Tree Pollination?

Pollination is the process that allows flowers to develop into fruit, and in the case of cherry trees, it involves the transfer of pollen from the male reproductive structures of one flower to the female reproductive structures of another. Cross-pollination happens when the pollen travels from a different tree, and self-pollination occurs when the pollen is transferred within the same tree.

Do Cherry Trees Require Cross-Pollination?

Cherry trees fall into two categories: self-pollinating and cross-pollinating. Self-pollinating cherry trees can fertilize their own flowers and do not need a separate tree to produce fruit. Examples of self-pollinating cherry trees include the Stella and Lapins varieties. On the other hand, cross-pollinating cherry trees need pollen from a different cherry tree to fertilize their flowers and produce fruit. Examples of cross-pollinating cherry trees include the Bing and Rainier varieties.

Benefits of Cross-Pollination

While self-pollinating cherry trees can produce fruit on their own, cross-pollination offers many benefits. First, cross-pollination can increase the size and number of cherries produced on a tree. Second, cross-pollination can lead to more consistent fruiting and better fruit quality. Finally, cross-pollination can extend the lifespan of a cherry tree and ensure that it remains productive for years to come.

Choosing the Right Cherry Trees

If you're planting cherry trees, it's important to choose varieties that are compatible for cross-pollination. The easiest way to do this is to choose two varieties that bloom at the same time and are in the same pollination group. For example, a Bing cherry tree (in pollination group 2) should be planted with another cherry tree in pollination group 2, such as a Black Tartarian. Alternatively, a tree in pollination group 3, such as a Rainier, can be planted with another tree in pollination group 2 or 3.

In Conclusion

The idea that you need to plant two cherry trees to get fruit is a common myth. While cross-pollination can lead to larger and higher quality fruit, many cherry trees are self-pollinating and can produce fruit on their own. If you're planting cherry trees, choose varieties that are compatible for cross-pollination to ensure that you get the most out of your orchard.