1 Preparing to Plant Cherry Trees
Not all cherry seeds are suitable for planting, so choose those that are intact, firm, and free from cracks, breaks, or wormholes. It’s a good idea to select several seeds and plant them together to increase the chances of germination.
For containers, opt for sturdy, thick, and large pots to ensure adequate space for the tree’s growth. If you have a spacious garden and prefer not to use pots, you can skip this step.
Prepare a soil mix that includes sandy loam, rich organic matter, and peat moss. Cherry trees can adapt to various soil types, but they require well-drained soil to thrive.
Additionally, you’ll need a plastic container or bag to simulate winter conditions and aid in seed germination.
2 Planting and Caring for Your Cherry Tree
Stratifying the Seeds
Fill a plastic container or bag with soil and peat moss, adding just enough water to create a moist but not soggy mixture. Bury the cherry seeds in this mixture, and to enhance air circulation, pierce holes in the container’s lid or leave the bag open.
Place the container or bag in the refrigerator, setting the temperature between 1°C and 6°C (33.8°F and 42.8°F). Keep the seeds in this environment for 6 to 8 weeks.
Planting the Seeds
On average, it takes about a month for the seeds to germinate. After stratification, transfer the seeds to individual pots or directly into the ground.
For pot planting, use one seed per pot, covering it with soil and a layer of peat moss. Add fertilizer, and water sufficiently to keep the soil moist. Place the pots outdoors, and after a few months, the trees should be a few centimeters tall. At this point, you can either keep them in the pots or transplant them into your garden.
If you’re planting directly into the ground, space the seeds about 15cm apart, burying them approximately 1cm below the surface. Once the seeds have sprouted, thin the seedlings to about 6m apart, and remember to add mulch around the base of the trees to promote healthy growth.
The ideal time to plant cherry trees is in early autumn, as this will give them the best chance to thrive.
Caring for Your Cherry Tree
Light: Cherry trees thrive in full sun, so choose a sunny spot to ensure your tree bears abundant, tasty, and beautiful fruit.
Temperature: These trees tolerate cold well but are sensitive to heat and prefer cooler temperatures with moderate humidity.
Fertilize your tree monthly to provide essential nutrients, and remember to prune it in the spring to prevent leaf diseases.
Water your tree daily, preferably in the morning, avoiding evening watering to prevent diseases. Increase the water supply when the tree is flowering and fruiting, as cherry trees are prone to waterlogging, especially during the rainy season.
With proper care, your cherry tree should bear fruit after about a year of planting and care. On average, a well-maintained tree can produce around 300 fruits per day, an impressive yield!
With these tips, you should be well on your way to successfully growing and harvesting your own cherry trees at home. If you need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out to us.
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