Who wouldn’t adore a slice of mom’s famous cherry pie or a succulent cherry perched atop a sundae? The allure of cultivating one’s own cherry tree is undeniable – from the breathtaking spring blooms to the joy of harvesting plump, juicy fruits directly from the branch. It’s little wonder that this beloved fruit has been cultivated for millennia, its origins tracing back to Europe and later arriving in North America during the 1600s.
While growing cherries comes with some challenges, I must confess that it can be a bit of a battle. For instance, these trees have a chilling requirement, which is why they thrive primarily north of the Mason Dixon line. You’ll also need to devise strategies to outsmart the birds and other critters who share your passion for cherries. Furthermore, diseases and pollination issues require careful consideration. But don’t let these obstacles deter you!
When it’s time to gather basketfuls of ripe fruits, all the hard work will be worth it. So, let’s get started on this journey and see where it takes us.
Cherries Varieties
Sweet Cherry
Sweet cherries have their roots in Prunus avium, a wild cherry that’s part of the rose family. However, they require cross-pollination with another cherry tree, and not just any will do – only certain varieties play nicely together. To ensure you’re pairing up the right cherries, consult pollination charts or speak with a nursery expert before making your purchase. With proper care, sweet cherries can take 5-7 years to mature and start producing fruit.
Once they do, expect yields of around 15-20 quarts from dwarf trees, 40 quarts from semi-dwarf trees, and up to 50 quarts from standard trees. When it comes to popular varieties, Bing is a classic choice with its traditional heart shape and large, dark red fruits that are both sweet and juicy. It’s particularly well-suited for west coast growers and produces fruit late in the season.
Gold cherries, on the other hand, are small but pack a big punch with their deep yellow color and tangy-sweet flavor – they’re perfect for eating fresh or processing and ripen mid-season. Kristen is another popular choice among market growers, boasting sweet flavor and purplish black fruit that holds up well to handling. Its cold hardiness makes it an attractive option for growers in colder climates.
Rainer Cherries, named after the iconic mountain, are a Washington state favorite with their yellow flesh and red blush. They ripen mid-season and offer impressive hardiness among sweet cherry varieties. Finally, Stella is another old-time favorite that’s known for its large, dark red fruits and resistance to cracking – though it can be sensitive to cold temperatures.
Sour Cherry
Sour or tart cherries, originating from Prunus cerasus, a close relative of the sweet cherry, are part of the rose family. This variety self-pollinates and can thrive as a single tree, although having a companion tree nearby may enhance fruit yield. The tart cherry’s cold hardiness and later bloom time differentiate it from its sweet cherry counterpart, making them less compatible for pollination purposes.
Tart cherries are best suited for zones 4-6 and begin producing fruit within 3-5 years of planting. Dwarf trees typically yield an average of 20 quarts, while semi-dwarf trees can produce up to 30-40 quarts, depending on the specific variety and surrounding pollinators. Several popular tart cherry varieties include Danube, a favored choice in the mid-Atlantic region and Michigan, which prefers growing near bodies of water due to its cold sensitivity.
Montmorency, my personal favorite, is prized for its reliable fruiting capabilities, producing dark red, juicy cherries that are perfect for pies, canning, and snacking straight from the tree. The North Star Pie Cherry variety stands out as a prolific producer, yielding tons of juicy, tart cherries, while also boasting disease resistance and early production.
Nanking Cherry
Nanking cherries (Prunus tomentosa) are a type of bush cherry that’s also known as Manchu cherry or mountain cherry. They’re closely related to plums and hail from Asia. Introduced to America in the late 1800s, they were sought after by adventurous gardeners due to their ability to thrive in various climates, unlike many sweet and tart cherry varieties. The Nanking cherries’ compact size, bush-like growth habit, and ornamental appeal make them a popular choice for landscaping.
Birds also adore them, as the fruit is a hit with feathered friends. Hardy in zones 2-8, these shrubs can tolerate poor soil conditions. When mature, they produce copious amounts of tart, pinkish fruits within the first or second year after planting. A single mature plant can yield up to eight quarts annually. While unnamed cultivars are common and often listed simply as ‘Nanking’ in nursery catalogs, named varieties do exist, providing a way to distinguish between different types.
Planting Cherry Trees
Planting Zones
Cherry trees require a specific climate to thrive. For optimal growth, they need a chilling period of 800-1,300 hours in temperatures between 32-55°F. This is where the concept of hardiness zones comes into play. In general, cherries grow well in zones 5-8, with some varieties capable of surviving the cold of zone 4 and others that can handle the heat of zone 9. It’s crucial to choose a cherry tree variety that’s adapted to your region’s climate, as they can be sensitive to extreme temperatures.
Where to Plant
When it comes to selecting the perfect location for your cherry trees, it’s crucial to consider a few key factors. Unlike apples or pears, cherries require more specialized placement due to their sensitivity to environmental conditions. One effective approach is to plant your cherry trees in the center of the orchard, where they’ll benefit from the natural protection provided by surrounding trees.
Conversely, avoid planting them in frost pockets or low-lying areas that may exacerbate temperature fluctuations. Instead, opt for gentle slopes that allow for good air circulation and sunlight penetration. Interestingly, cherries have a natural affinity for being situated near bodies of water – think of the famous Washington DC cherry blossom displays. To ensure optimal growth, make sure your cherry trees receive full sun and unobstructed airflow.
Choosing Root Stock
When it comes to establishing a strong foundation for your fruit tree, the selection of the rootstock is crucial. A healthy rootstock sets the stage for a vigorous and productive tree that will thrive throughout its life. While there are several options available, Mazzard and Mahaleb rootstocks are generally regarded as among the best choices, providing a solid base for optimal growth.
When to Plant
For optimal growth, plant cherry trees during the fall or early spring when the soil is at its most receptive. The cooler temperatures and increased moisture during these seasons allow for better root establishment and a stronger start to the tree’s development.
Soil Requirements
When planting young cherry trees, it’s essential to provide them with a well-suited environment. A protected area with soil having a pH between 5.5-7.5 is ideal. The soil should be well-drained and composed of loamy, sandy textures. Cherries are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, so it’s crucial to create a deep hole and fill it with a mixture that promotes good drainage.
To ensure the best possible start for your cherry tree, I recommend using the following formula:
1 gallon peat moss for added texture and moisture regulation,
1 gallon well-aged compost for providing micronutrients,
2 cups bonemeal rich in phosphorus for promoting healthy root growth,
and 2 cups fish meal (limited to spring application only) for a boost of essential nutrients.
While this method may require more effort upfront, the benefits it provides in the long run are substantial. The extra care and attention will ultimately translate into a stronger, healthier tree.
Spacing
Cherry trees, like many other fruit-bearing varieties, offer a range of sizes to suit different growing conditions. Standard sweet cherry trees require around 35-40 feet of space between each tree, while standard tart cherries need about 20-25 feet of separation. For semi-dwarf and dwarf varieties, plant them 15 and 10 feet apart respectively. Notably, Nanking cherries are bush-like in nature and can thrive when planted 6-8 feet away from one another.
Caring for Growing Cherries
Mulching
When it comes to caring for cherry trees, one often overlooked but crucial aspect is providing them with a natural mulch. Instead of opting for synthetic materials, consider using straw or bark as a more eco-friendly and beneficial option. To ensure the health and well-being of your tree, be sure to keep this mulch at least six inches away from the trunk, allowing for proper air circulation and preventing any potential moisture-related issues.
Watering
When it comes to growing cherry trees, maintaining optimal moisture levels is crucial. A general rule of thumb is to provide at least one inch of water per week, especially during periods of drought or dry weather. If the weather conditions are particularly arid, be sure to water your cherries thoroughly to ensure they receive the necessary hydration.
Fertilizing
When nurturing cherry trees, it’s essential to provide them with the right nutrients during key stages of their development. In the spring, as cherries begin to grow and mature, a gentle fertilization is recommended. Additionally, a second round of fertilization should occur after the harvest, when the tree has finished producing fruit for the season.
However, it’s crucial not to overdo it, as excessive fertilizer application can lead to an imbalance in the tree’s growth, prioritizing foliage development at the expense of fruit production. To avoid this, it’s highly recommended to test the soil quality before applying any fertilizers, allowing you to strike the perfect balance for a bountiful cherry harvest.
Pruning
When it comes to pruning tart and Nanking cherries, winter is the ideal time – when they’re dormant. In contrast, sweet cherries should only be minimally pruned in late summer. Pruning serves a dual purpose: it allows the tree to bask in sunlight, which is essential for healthy growth, and helps prevent diseases from taking hold by promoting good air circulation.
On mature trees, use hand pruners to carefully remove any suckers and new vertical limbs that have emerged.
Additionally, take this opportunity to eliminate any crossed branches, ensuring a more open and disease-resistant tree.
Cherry Pests and Diseases
While sweet cherry trees are indeed vulnerable to various pests and diseases, it’s reassuring to know that with proper care, their health can be significantly improved. Nanking cherry varieties, on the other hand, exhibit greater resilience than their sweet or tart counterparts. By adopting good management practices, you can take proactive steps in maintaining the overall well-being of your cherries, ensuring they remain in optimal condition.
Aphids
Cherry trees are vulnerable to aphid attacks, with the black cherry aphid being a particularly problematic variety. When infestations reach extreme levels, they can impede the growth of young trees. To mitigate this issue, consider introducing natural predators such as lacewing larvae, lady beetles, and soldier beetles into the environment. For added protection, young trees can be sprayed with neem oil to help deter aphid populations.
Peach Twig Borer
When it comes to stone fruits, peach twig borer moths pose a significant threat. These pesky insects can disfigure or consume fruit and even kill twigs. One of the telltale signs of infestation is wilting or stunted shoots in the springtime, accompanied by damage caused by the larvae on the fruit itself. While this problem can be concerning, there is hope for control. For instance, the Pentalitomastix pyralis wasp has been shown to be an effective predator of these moths.
In cases where infestation is severe, it may be necessary to employ insecticides in early summer, coinciding with the emergence of the first larval generation.
Western Cherry Fly
The life cycle of the cherry fruit fly begins with the emergence of yellowish white grubs that eventually transform into small flies resembling houseflies. These adult flies then search for a suitable surface to lay their eggs, typically creating minute holes in the fruit as they do so. Once hatched, the larvae excavate unsightly tunnel-like passages within the fruit, causing significant damage.
To effectively manage this pest, traps can be employed to attract and capture adult flies, thereby disrupting the reproductive cycle.
Spider Mites
Cherries are susceptible to two common pests: the European red mite and the two-spotted spider mite. These minute arachnids thrive on leaves, impeding photosynthesis in the process. As you inspect your trees during the warm summer months, you may notice clusters of red or yellowish dots accompanied by silky webs. To combat these unwanted visitors, try blasting them off with a powerful jet of water and subsequently clearing away any debris that accumulates.
Additionally, maintaining a weed-free orchard will help prevent these pests from taking hold in the first place.
Bacterial Canker
The bacterial canker virus poses a significant threat to stone fruit trees, causing cankers that can encircle and destroy entire branches. One of the telltale signs of infection is the presence of dark patches on the bark with a depressed center or visible gumming on the tree’s surface. This disease is particularly prevalent in regions characterized by high humidity and cool temperatures.
To minimize the risk of transmission, ensure your trees have adequate drainage and sanitize any tools you use to prune them. It’s essential to remove diseased branches during the summer months to prevent the spread of the infection.
Brown Rot
Brown rot is a devastating disease that can significantly impact stone fruit tree yields, causing up to half of the harvest to be lost. The initial symptoms typically appear on cherry blossoms as brown spots, which then spread to fruits that begin to shrivel and decay. A grayish powdery mold often covers the affected fruits. To prevent further damage, it’s essential to promptly remove and destroy any diseased branches, ensuring all pruning tools are sanitized to avoid spreading the disease.
Additionally, dispose of any infected fruits to minimize the risk of re-infection. Maintaining good tree hygiene by keeping trees well-pruned and spaced can also help improve air circulation, reducing the likelihood of disease development.
Cherry Leaf Spot
If you’re noticing small purple and red spots covering your cherry tree’s leaves, you might be dealing with a common fungal disease called cherry leaf spot. This affliction typically affects trees in the Midwest, eastern Canada, and New England. Left unchecked, infestations can become so severe that they cause entire trees to shed their leaves by mid-summer, potentially leading to the demise of the tree itself.
To combat this issue, it’s crucial to remove and dispose of fallen leaves around your cherry trees, as these decaying leaves can act as a breeding ground for the fungus. After clearing the area, consider adding a layer of straw mulch to help suppress any remaining fungal spores. In addition, you may need to apply a fungicide treatment, though it’s essential to note that this fungus can develop resistance over time.
To increase your chances of success, be sure to alternate between different types of fungicides and follow the manufacturer’s recommended application schedule. For optimal results, administer the first fungicide treatment within two weeks after blossoming when the cherry leaves first emerge, then repeat as directed.
Cherry Rust
Cherry rust is a fungal disease that can lead to premature leaf drop, typically occurring late in the season. Although it may cause damage, it’s not as severe of an issue as other diseases since harvests are usually completed before the rust takes hold. Early signs include cankers on young cherry trees and pale spots on leaves, with visible pustules forming on the undersides. Effective control measures involve using a lime and sulfur fungicide to combat the infection.
Black Knot
Black knot, a prevalent fungal infection, can severely impact cherry and plum trees by forming hard, uneven black growths that encircle twigs and branches. This debilitating disease stifles tree growth and hampers fruit production. To mitigate its spread, maintain a clean orchard environment by regularly disposing of fallen twigs and fruits. Additionally, a dormant neem oil spray can help impede the disease’s progression, though it won’t eradicate established infections.
Copper sprays, on the other hand, can suppress spore formation. Should galls appear, it’s crucial to remove them carefully while wearing gloves to avoid contaminating healthy tree parts. Dispose of contaminated branches by burning them to prevent the disease from spreading further.
Powdery Mildew
Powdery mildew, a common affliction affecting plants, manifests itself in the form of white spots on leaves and a thick white mold covering fruit. The disease typically begins to take hold in the spring, when circular patches of powder start to appear on leaf surfaces. As it spreads, moisture becomes a key factor, allowing the fungus to thrive. To prevent powdery mildew from gaining a foothold, gardeners can implement several strategies.
Firstly, irrigation should be focused on the soil rather than the leaves themselves, as this helps to reduce the risk of infection. Additionally, maintaining good air circulation around plants is crucial, and this can be achieved by keeping trees well-spaced and pruning them regularly. Furthermore, it’s essential to prune away any root suckers that may be present, as these provide a fertile ground for powdery mildew to take hold.
Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium wilt typically sets in around 5-7 years after planting, initially manifesting as yellow leaves and withering growth on young trees during the early summer months. This disease can have a significant impact on fruit yield, although fortunately, healthy trees are often able to mount a successful defense against it. To promote tree health and resilience, ensure that plants receive regular fertilization, control weeds and maintain optimal watering levels.
Additionally, remove any dead, dying or diseased branches to deprive the pathogen of a foothold, thereby preventing further spread.
Cherry Rasp Leaf
The devastating effects of Cherry Rasp Leaf Virus manifest in distorted leaves, predominantly appearing on the lower sections of affected trees. To mitigate this issue, it’s crucial to eradicate infected trees by removal and disposal. Additionally, implementing effective weed control measures and selecting disease-resistant tree varieties can go a long way in preventing the spread of this virus.
Sour Cherry Yellows
The virus’s transmission mechanism involves a combination of pollen transfer and grafting. Initially, the tree may display symptoms after a few years of being infected, although subtle signs can emerge as early as the first year, characterized by mottled yellow leaves. As time passes, up to half of the leaves will fall from the trees, leading to a characteristic thinning or ‘willowy’ growth habit. While yield will be affected, the remaining fruits typically remain healthy and edible.
To mitigate the spread, it’s crucial to purchase stock from certified clean sources and refrain from grafting or transferring pollen from infected trees. Interestingly, thermotherapy has proven effective in eradicating the virus.
Crown and Root Rot
If you’re concerned about a tree infection, take note that the symptoms often manifest just below or above the soil surface. Infected trees typically appear unhealthy or display signs reminiscent of fire blight. To confirm the diagnosis, carefully dig around the base of the tree to expose the root and inspect for any signs of rot. When watering your trees, be mindful not to create standing water that could exacerbate the issue.
Instead, prioritize soil with good drainage to help prevent the infection from taking hold.
Birds
Birds can be a significant nuisance when it comes to cherries, but there are ways to deter them without resorting to harsh methods. One approach is to combine planting mulberries with installing bird netting to create a comprehensive defense system. Timing is crucial here – cover your trees as soon as the cherries begin to swell to prevent birds from accessing the fruit. When using netting, be aware that it may collapse onto the tree, allowing birds to still pick at the cherries.
To mitigate this issue, consider creating a tent-like structure around the trees using bamboo or tall stakes and securing it to the ground to ensure birds can’t slip underneath. Alternatively, you can employ an owl statue – either silent or one that emits a screeching noise – to scare away birds from your cherry orchard. Just be sure to relocate the statue periodically to keep the birds guessing about its authenticity.
While birds can be problematic, it’s essential to remember that many species play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance by controlling insect populations that might otherwise harm our garden.
Companions for Cherries
When cultivating cherry trees, it’s essential to consider the surrounding plant life. Certain plants can foster a harmonious environment, boosting your cherries’ growth and health. For instance, Allium, Marigold, Spinach, Garlic, Onion, Tansy, Nasturtium, and Clover are excellent companions for your cherries. These plants share beneficial traits like attracting pollinators, repelling pests, or providing shade, creating a mutually beneficial relationship.
On the other hand, some plants can actually hinder your cherry tree’s growth. Potato, Grass, and similar plants should be avoided, as they may compete with your cherries for resources, potentially stunting their development.
Harvesting and Storing Cherries
As cherries ripen, their sugar content increases significantly, making it crucial to harvest them at the optimal moment. Look for fruits that have turned dark red, yellow, or black, depending on the variety. A simple taste test will ensure you’re picking cherries when they’re sweetest and won’t continue to ripen once removed from the tree, unlike some other fruits. If birds are flocking to your cherry tree, it’s likely time to start harvesting.
Keep in mind that rain can cause ripe cherries to split, so be sure to gather them before a heavy downpour. When storing cherries, leave the stem intact to help preserve their freshness for up to a week. Place them in perforated plastic bags and store them in the refrigerator. Avoid washing the cherries before storage, as this can lead to moisture accumulation and spoilage. With a bountiful cherry harvest, it’s time to get creative with recipes like pies, preserves, bounce, and cake.
You can also experiment with unique flavor combinations like cherry barbecue sauce, salsa, and relish. If you’re unable to use all the cherries immediately, consider canning or freezing them. To freeze, wash and pit the fruits, then lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet and transfer them to a freezer bag once frozen.
