Last updated on December 14th, 2024 at 02:23 pm
How to care for a Cherry Tree. Ahh… Cherry trees most fruit tree enthusiasts have a hard time growing these trees. It does require a lot of thought and planning before going to your local nursery and purchasing the tree of your choice. Cherry trees are Prunus “Cerasus” The Genus and Subgenus.
How many chilling hours for Cherry trees?
Also called chilling requirement. First, and foremost you will need at least 750 chilling hours for most sweet cherry trees. Long cooler days for sour cherry trees at least 1200 hrs. or more. This means about 30-40 days of temperatures at 45° degrees or less in order to have a good cherry fruit crop.
You can also find out what your chilling hours are for your area by viewing the map here. It’s important to note the chilling hours on the map could be more or less…depending on the weather!
Types of Cherry trees for the Southwest.
Most Cherry trees will do well in and around the Southwest, as noted above, providing ample chilling hours.
Ok, so now what type of Cherry trees do best in mainly dry warm weather? Here is a list.
- Van Cherry – Firm and Sweet abundant crop (Photos and information)
- Bing – Dark and large Cherries. Pollinate with Stella or Rainier (more information here)
- Lapins – Produces large sweet dark red cherries. It is a cross between the Van and Stella cherry tree.
- Stella – Very firm and sweet and dark red in color.
- Black Tartarian – Pollinates most other sweet cherry trees. Dark red in color.
- Rainier – Produces a white flesh skin. Sweet and large cherries.
- Montmorency – Tart-tasting and medium-sized fruit.
The USDA garden zone is 5 – 8 for most Cherry trees.
Planting Your Cherry Tree
It is best to select a sunny location with well-drained soil. Cherry trees thrive in full sunlight and require good air circulation to prevent diseases. Before planting, it is advisable to dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball of the tree. This will allow the roots to spread out comfortably and establish a strong foundation. It is also important to add organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, to the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
Cherry trees require regular watering to ensure proper growth and development. It is essential to provide enough water during the growing season, especially during dry spells or periods of drought.
However, it is equally important not to overwater the tree, as this can lead to root rot and other problems. Applying a layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and prevent weeds from competing with the cherry tree for nutrients.
To encourage healthy growth and abundant fruiting, cherry trees need regular pruning and maintenance. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
It is important to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches that can cause damage or hinder airflow. Pruning also helps maintain the shape and size of the tree, making it easier to harvest the cherries.
Type of Soil
The Southwest region has poor soil, so it is best to use good well-composted soil. They also like to be fertilized often best to use a good fruit tree fertilizer, which should be done about once per month during the growing seasons late April until mid-fall.
Around the Southwest, they like plenty of water best to use a good drip watering system and set the timer for about 15-20 minutes 2-3 times per week starting in mid-spring and ending in late fall. Your dripper should emit at least 7 – 8 gallons per hour.
It’s important to note that sweet cherry trees will bear fruit about the 4th maybe 5th year after initial planting.
The life span of Cherry trees
Sweet cherry trees will live between 20 and 30 years and sour ones about 15 – 20 years. So, their lifespan is somewhat short except for the black cherry trees which can live much longer, over 100 years!
Problems with Cherry Trees
No doubt these trees will have problems as they are prone to diseases and insects. Blight, canker, black knot, and powdery mildew are on top of the list. Cherry aphids, borers, and mites will attack these trees.
Treating them for Insects. The best solution is to consistently water, feed, and observe your trees. Doing this you will have fewer problems with diseases and insects on any tree.
Spraying with horticulture oil early in the growing season (late February or early March) will prevent insect eggs from hatching thus fewer insects throughout the growing seasons.
At the first sign of insects use a good fruit tree insecticide to kill these pests. Good organic substitutes are neem oil and insecticidal soaps. Insecticides will work on borers but they must be applied when the borer is active typically when they are laying their eggs.
Spray fungicides for diseases
Choose a good fungicide spray to remove powdery mildew, canker, and black knot diseases. Copper fungicide will also work well. Always spray your trees thoroughly from top to bottom. And, of course, clean your tools if you have done any pruning on your diseased trees.
Most people do not know this but fungus spores come from over-watering and water from nearby sprinkler systems, or too much rain.
In conclusion
Growing cherry trees is a fulfilling endeavor that requires careful selection, preparation, and maintenance. With the right variety, suitable growing conditions, and proper care, you can enjoy the beauty of cherry trees and savor the delectable fruits they bear. So why not start growing your own cherry tree today and experience the joy of watching it thrive and blossom?
How to plant your Cherry Tree? Learn more on “Plant a tree properly“.
