Overview
- Growing your own cherries is a rewarding experience, offering the sweet satisfaction of nurturing a tree from seed to fruit.
- Cherry seeds require a period of stratification, a process that mimics the natural winter conditions they would experience in the wild.
- Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root flare (the point where the roots transition to the trunk) is at or slightly above soil level.
Growing your own cherries is a rewarding experience, offering the sweet satisfaction of nurturing a tree from seed to fruit. But did you know you can start this journey with just a cherry from your local market? This guide will walk you through the process of how to grow cherries from cherries, from seed selection to planting and beyond.
The Magic of Cherry Seeds
While cherry trees are typically propagated through grafting, growing them from seed offers a unique and exciting challenge. While the resulting tree might not produce fruit identical to the parent cherry, it will still be a beautiful and potentially fruitful addition to your garden.
Choosing the Right Cherries
The first step in your cherry-growing adventure is selecting the right cherries. Choose fresh, ripe cherries with intact seeds. Avoid cherries that are bruised or damaged, as these might not contain viable seeds.
Extracting the Seeds
Once you have your cherries, carefully remove the seeds. You can do this by gently squeezing the cherry and separating the seed from the flesh. Rinse the seeds thoroughly under cool water to remove any remaining fruit pulp.
Preparing the Seeds for Planting
Cherry seeds require a period of stratification, a process that mimics the natural winter conditions they would experience in the wild. This process helps break dormancy and encourages germination.
- Stratification Method 1: The Moist Paper Towel Method
- Wrap the seeds in a damp paper towel.
- Place the wrapped seeds in a sealed plastic bag and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 months.
- Check the paper towel periodically to ensure it remains moist.
- Stratification Method 2: The Soil Method
- Fill a small container with a mixture of equal parts potting soil and vermiculite.
- Sow the seeds about ½ inch deep in the soil.
- Water the container thoroughly and place it in a sealed plastic bag.
- Store the container in the refrigerator for 3-4 months.
Planting Your Cherry Seedlings
After the stratification period, it’s time to plant your cherry seedlings. Choose a location that receives at least 6 hours of sunlight daily and has well-drained soil.
- Potting Your Seedlings
- Fill a pot with a well-draining potting mix.
- Gently place the seedling in the pot, ensuring the root ball is covered with soil.
- Water the seedling thoroughly.
- Planting Directly in the Ground
- Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the seedling.
- Place the seedling in the hole, ensuring the root flare (the point where the roots transition to the trunk) is at or slightly above soil level.
- Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove air pockets.
- Water the newly planted seedling thoroughly.
Caring for Your Young Cherry Tree
Once your cherry tree is planted, it’s important to provide it with the proper care to ensure its healthy growth.
- Watering: Water your cherry tree regularly, especially during dry spells. The soil should be consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your cherry tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package.
- Pruning: Pruning your cherry tree helps to shape its growth and encourage fruit production. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Patience is Key
Growing a cherry tree from seed is a long-term project. It may take several years for your tree to reach maturity and produce fruit. But with patience and proper care, you’ll be rewarded with the sweet taste of homegrown cherries.
The Rewards of Growing Your Own Cherries
There’s something truly special about growing your own food. The satisfaction of nurturing a tree from seed to fruit is unparalleled. Beyond the delicious fruit, a cherry tree adds beauty and value to your property. It also provides a haven for birds and other wildlife.
A Final Word: Embrace the Journey
While growing a cherry tree from seed requires time and effort, the journey is as rewarding as the destination. Enjoy the process of watching your tree grow, learn from each stage of its development, and savor the sweet fruits of your labor.
What People Want to Know
1. How long does it take for a cherry tree grown from seed to produce fruit?
It typically takes 5-7 years for a cherry tree grown from seed to produce fruit. However, this can vary depending on the variety of cherry and the growing conditions.
2. Can I grow a cherry tree from a seed from a store-bought cherry?
Yes, you can grow a cherry tree from a seed from a store-bought cherry. However, the resulting tree may not produce fruit identical to the parent cherry.
3. What are some common diseases that affect cherry trees?
Cherry trees are susceptible to various diseases, including leaf spot, powdery mildew, and brown rot. It’s essential to practice good sanitation and monitor your trees for signs of disease.
4. How do I protect my cherry tree from pests?
Cherry trees can be affected by pests such as aphids, scale insects, and fruit flies. You can use natural pest control methods or consult with a local nursery for recommendations on appropriate pesticides.
5. What is the best time to prune a cherry tree?
The best time to prune a cherry tree is in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Pruning during this time helps to shape the tree and encourage fruit production.
