Do You Have to Plant Two Cherry Trees?

Many gardeners dream of adding a beautiful and fruitful cherry tree to their yard or garden. However, they often question whether they need to plant two cherry trees to ensure a successful harvest. The answer depends on the variety of cherry tree you plan to grow and its pollination requirements.

The Importance of Pollination

Most cherry trees are not self-fertile, meaning they require cross-pollination with another variety to produce fruit. Pollination occurs when bees or other insects transfer pollen from the male flower to the female flower on a different tree. This process is critical for fertilization and fruit development.

If you only plant one cherry tree, and the variety you choose requires cross-pollination, the likelihood of producing fruit is very low. Even if the tree produces flowers, without pollination from another variety, the flowers will fall off and not develop into cherries.

Types of Cherry Trees

There are two main types of cherry trees: sweet cherry trees and sour cherry trees. Sweet cherry trees are the most commonly planted and include varieties like Bing, Rainier, and Stella. These trees generally require another sweet cherry tree for cross-pollination, but there are a few self-fertile varieties available, such as Lapins and BlackGold.

Sour cherry trees, on the other hand, are self-fertile and do not require cross-pollination. Varieties like Montmorency and North Star can be planted as a single tree and still produce fruit. It is important to note that sour cherries are not as sweet as sweet cherries and are typically used for baking and cooking rather than eating fresh.

Best Pollination Methods

If you decide to plant more than one cherry tree, there are a few guidelines to follow for the best pollination results. Firstly, plant trees of different varieties for maximum diversity. Secondly, the trees should bloom at the same time to ensure pollination between the male and female flowers. Consider planting a later blooming variety to complement an earlier blooming tree.

Alternatively, you can also graft a branch from another variety onto your existing tree. This method will provide the same cross-pollination benefits while allowing you to maintain a single tree. Keep in mind that grafting is a delicate process and should only be attempted by experienced gardeners.

In Conclusion

While it is not always necessary to plant two cherry trees, it is generally recommended for the best chance of a successful harvest. By choosing the right varieties and following proper pollination guidelines, you can enjoy delicious homegrown cherries year after year.