Can You Plant a Cherry Tree from Seed?

Cherry trees are a popular choice for gardeners and homeowners alike, thanks to their beautiful blossoms and delicious fruit. But can you plant a cherry tree from a seed? The answer is yes, but it's not as straightforward as you might think.

Choose the Right Cherry Variety

Before you can plant a cherry tree from seed, you need to choose the right variety. Not all cherry trees will grow from a seed, and even those that do may not produce fruit that tastes as good as the parent plant. Look for cherry varieties that are known to grow well from seed, such as Bing or Montmorency. These varieties are more likely to produce fruit that is similar to that of the parent tree.

Prepare the Seed

Once you have chosen the right cherry variety, it's time to prepare the seed. Cherry seeds need to be chilled for several months before they will germinate. This is because cherry trees typically require a cold period in order to break their dormancy and begin growing again in the spring. To chill your cherry seeds, place them in a plastic bag with some moist potting soil and refrigerate them for at least three months.

Plant the Seed

After the cherry seeds have been chilled, it's time to plant them. Choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and deep as the cherry seed, and fill it with a mixture of potting soil and compost. Place the seed in the hole, cover it with soil, and water it well.

Care for Your Cherry Tree

Once your cherry tree has sprouted, it will need proper care to grow strong and healthy. Water it regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer every spring. Prune it in the winter to remove any dead or damaged branches, and keep an eye out for pests and diseases.

Be Patient

Finally, it's important to be patient when growing a cherry tree from seed. It can take several years before your seed-grown cherry tree begins bearing fruit, and even then, the fruit may not taste as good as the fruit from a grafted tree. But if you're willing to put in the time and effort, planting a cherry tree from seed can be a rewarding experience.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while it is possible to plant a cherry tree from seed, it's important to choose the right variety, properly prepare the seed, and give your tree the proper care it needs to grow strong and healthy. So if you're up for the challenge, grab some cherry seeds and get planting!