Can You Plant Cherry Trees in Texas?

Cherry trees are a popular fruit tree that grows well in cooler regions such as the Pacific Northwest and northern Midwest. But what about Texas? Can you grow cherry trees in the Lone Star State?

The Challenges of Growing Cherry Trees in Texas

Growing cherry trees in Texas can be challenging due to the state's warm climate and lack of winter chill hours. Cherry trees require a certain number of hours of temperatures below 45°F during the winter in order to properly produce fruit when spring arrives. Unfortunately, much of Texas does not experience enough chill hours for cherry trees to thrive.

In addition to the lack of winter chill hours, Texas is also susceptible to spring freezes that can damage cherry tree blossoms and reduce fruit production. This means that if you plan on growing cherry trees in Texas, you will need to carefully select the right variety and take extra precautions to protect your trees during the winter and early spring months.

The Best Cherry Tree Varieties for Texas

If you want to grow cherry trees in Texas, you will need to select varieties that are better suited for warmer climates and lower chill hour requirements. Some of the best cherry tree varieties for Texas include the following:

Bing: A popular sweet cherry variety that is self-fertile and blooms in late March or early April.

Black Tartarian: A sweet cherry that is self-fertile and blooms in late March or early April.

Montmorency: A sour cherry variety that is self-fertile and blooms in late March or early April.

Stella: A sweet cherry that is self-fertile and blooms in late March or early April.

When selecting a cherry tree variety for Texas, be sure to check the chill hour requirements and select a tree that needs fewer than 500 chill hours. This will increase your chances of producing a good crop and enjoying delicious cherries from your own backyard.

Caring for Your Cherry Trees in Texas

Once you have selected the right cherry tree variety for Texas, you will need to take good care of your trees in order to ensure their successful growth and fruit production. Here are a few tips for caring for cherry trees in Texas:

Plant cherry trees in well-drained soil that receives plenty of sunlight.

Protect your trees from spring freezes by covering them with blankets or insulation during cold snaps.

Water your cherry trees deeply and regularly to ensure good growth and fruit production.

Fertilize your cherry trees in the spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions.

Prune your cherry trees in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or diseased branches and promote good fruit production.

By following these tips and selecting the right cherry tree variety for Texas, you can grow delicious cherries right in your own backyard.

Conclusion

While growing cherry trees in Texas can be challenging, it is not impossible. By selecting the right cherry tree variety for your area and taking good care of your trees, you can enjoy the delicious taste of fresh cherries right in your own backyard.