Can You Plant Cherry Pits and Grow a Tree?

Cherry trees are popular fruit trees that bear delicious and nutritious cherries. But have you ever wondered if you can grow a cherry tree from a cherry pit? The answer is yes, you can. In this article, we will discuss how to plant cherry pits and grow a tree successfully.

Choose the Right Cherry Pits

The first step in growing a cherry tree from a cherry pit is to choose the right pits. You need to make sure that the pits are viable and healthy. To do this, you can select pits from the cherries you bought from the grocery store or the ones you picked from a local cherry farm. Look for pits that are plump, firm, and free from any damage or mold. Also, make sure that the cherries are ripe and juicy.

Dry and Store the Cherry Pits

Once you have selected the cherry pits, you need to dry and store them before planting. To do this, spread the cherry pits in a single layer on a flat surface like a paper towel or a tray. Leave them to dry for several days in a warm and dry area. After they have dried, store them in an airtight container like a sealed plastic bag or a jar until you are ready to plant them.

Prepare the Soil

The next step is to prepare the soil for planting. Cherry trees thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Choose a spot in your garden that gets full sun and has good drainage. Remove any weeds and rocks from the planting area and amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure. Mix the soil thoroughly to ensure that the organic matter is evenly distributed.

Plant the Cherry Pits

Once you have prepared the soil, it's time to plant the cherry pits. Dig a hole that is twice the size of the cherry pit and about 3 inches deep. Place the cherry pit in the hole with the pointed end facing down and cover it with soil. Water the soil gently to settle it around the cherry pit. You can plant several cherry pits to increase your chances of success.

Care for the Cherry Tree

After planting the cherry pits, you need to care for the cherry tree until it grows into a healthy and productive tree. Water the tree regularly but don't overwater it as this can cause root rot. Fertilize the tree with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth. Prune the tree in the late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased wood and shape the tree.

Conclusion

Growing a cherry tree from a cherry pit is a fun and rewarding project that can yield delicious fruit in a few years. With the right cherry pits, soil, and care, you can grow a beautiful cherry tree that will provide shade, beauty, and tasty cherries for years to come.