Can You Plant a Cherry Pit and Grow a Tree?

Cherries are delicious fruits that are both sweet and tart. If you enjoy eating them, have you ever wondered if you can grow your own cherry tree? Have you ever tried planting a cherry pit and growing a tree from it? In this article, we will explore whether it is possible to grow a cherry tree from a pit.

Cherry Pit Growing 101

Before we get into the details of whether you can grow a cherry tree, let’s discuss how to plant a cherry pit. First, remove the pit from the cherry and wash it thoroughly. Second, soak the pit in water for several days to help loosen any remaining fruit flesh on it. Third, remove any leftover flesh from the pit, being careful not to damage the seed inside. Fourth, plant the pit in a pot or directly in the ground. Make sure to bury it about 2 inches deep and water it. Finally, wait for your cherry tree to grow!

Factors That Affect Cherry Pit Germination

However, while planting cherry pits may seem like a simple task, there are several factors that can affect whether your pit will actually germinate and grow into a tree. One of the most important factors is climate. Cherries usually grow in cool but temperate climates, so if you live in a tropical or arid climate, it may be more difficult to grow a cherry tree. Another factor is soil quality. Cherries need well-drained, fertile soil that is rich in organic matter. If you don't have access to good quality soil, you may need to amend the soil or use a good quality potting mix.

Cherry Pit Germination Time and Requirements

Cherry pits usually take several weeks to several months to germinate. You can speed up the germination process by nicking the pit or cracking it with a nutcracker to help it absorb water more easily. However, even with the best conditions and care, cherry pits may not germinate at all. This is because not all cherry pits contain healthy seeds or are viable for germination. For this reason, it helps to plant several pits at once to increase the chances of success.

The Bottom Line

So, can you plant a cherry pit and grow a tree? The answer is yes, but it may not be as easy as it seems. Growing a cherry tree from a pit requires patience, care, and favorable climate and soil conditions. Even then, there is no guarantee that your cherry pits will germinate and grow into healthy trees. If you want to grow cherry trees for fruit production or landscaping purposes, it may be better to purchase a grafted tree from a nursery that specializes in fruit trees. This will ensure that you get the exact variety you want, and the tree will be more likely to produce fruit sooner.