Quick notes
- Select a compatible cherry tree that is in bloom at the same time as your Bing cherry tree.
- By understanding the principles of cherry tree compatibility, timing, and pollination methods, you can unlock the full potential of your Bing cherry tree and enjoy a sweet reward for your efforts.
- Can I use a Bing cherry tree as a pollinator for another Bing cherry tree.
Bing cherries are a beloved summer treat, known for their deep red color, juicy flesh, and sweet flavor. But what if your Bing cherry tree isn’t producing the bounty of fruit you hoped for? Understanding how to cross pollinate your Bing cherry tree is key to unlocking its full potential and enjoying a bumper crop of delicious cherries.
The Importance of Cross-Pollination
Bing cherry trees are self-incompatible, meaning they cannot pollinate themselves. They require pollen from a different cherry variety to produce fruit. This process, known as cross-pollination, involves transferring pollen from the flowers of one cherry tree to the flowers of another.
Understanding Cherry Tree Compatibility
Not all cherry varieties are compatible for cross-pollination. Bing cherry trees are best pollinated by other sweet cherry varieties like:
- Lapins: A sweet cherry variety known for its early ripening and high yield.
- Stella: A sweet cherry variety with a distinctive heart-shaped fruit and excellent disease resistance.
- Sweetheart: A sweet cherry variety with a delicate flavor and attractive dark red skin.
The Timing is Crucial
The ideal time for cross-pollination is during the cherry blossom season, typically in late spring. The flowers are most receptive to pollen during this time, and the weather conditions are usually favorable for pollination.
The Art of Hand Pollination
While nature often takes care of pollination with the help of wind and insects, you can also manually pollinate your Bing cherry tree to ensure successful fertilization. Here’s how:
1. Choose a Compatible Pollinator: Select a compatible cherry tree that is in bloom at the same time as your Bing cherry tree.
2. Collect Pollen: Gently tap the flowers of the pollinator tree to collect pollen on a small brush or cotton swab.
3. Transfer Pollen: Carefully brush the pollen onto the stigma of the Bing cherry tree flowers. The stigma is the sticky, receptive part of the flower located at the center.
4. Repeat the Process: Repeat the process for several flowers on the Bing cherry tree.
The Power of Nature’s Helpers
Bees are natural pollinators and play a vital role in the fertilization process. You can attract bees to your cherry trees by planting bee-friendly flowers in your garden, providing a water source, and avoiding the use of pesticides.
Caring for Your Pollinated Tree
Once your Bing cherry tree has been pollinated, it’s important to provide optimal care to ensure a healthy and fruitful harvest. This includes:
- Watering: Water your cherry tree regularly, especially during dry periods.
- Fertilizing: Feed your cherry tree with a balanced fertilizer in the early spring.
- Pruning: Prune your cherry tree in late winter or early spring to remove dead or diseased branches and to encourage healthy growth.
Recognizing Successful Pollination
You’ll know your Bing cherry tree has been successfully pollinated when you see small, green fruits developing on the branches. These fruits will gradually grow larger and ripen into delicious cherries.
The Joy of Abundant Fruit
Cross-pollination is a simple but essential step in ensuring a bountiful harvest of Bing cherries. By understanding the principles of cherry tree compatibility, timing, and pollination methods, you can unlock the full potential of your Bing cherry tree and enjoy a sweet reward for your efforts.
Questions We Hear a Lot
1. Can I use a Bing cherry tree as a pollinator for another Bing cherry tree?
No, Bing cherry trees are self-incompatible, so they cannot pollinate each other. You need a different, compatible sweet cherry variety for successful pollination.
2. How many pollinator trees do I need?
One compatible pollinator tree is usually sufficient for a single Bing cherry tree. However, if your Bing cherry tree is large or you want to maximize fruit production, you may consider planting two or more pollinator trees.
3. Can I cross-pollinate my Bing cherry tree with a sour cherry tree?
No, sweet cherries and sour cherries are not compatible for cross-pollination. They belong to different species and produce different types of pollen.
4. What if my Bing cherry tree is not producing fruit even after cross-pollination?
Several factors can affect fruit production, including:
- Age: Young cherry trees may not produce fruit for several years.
- Weather: Extreme weather conditions can affect pollination and fruit development.
- Disease or pests: Infections or pests can damage flowers and prevent fruit production.
If you are experiencing problems with fruit production, it’s best to consult with a local horticultural expert or arborist.
