How to Grow Cherries from Seeds in Florida: Expert Advice for Success

Florida’s warm climate and ample sunshine might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of cherry trees. But with a little knowledge and patience, you can actually grow these delicious fruits right in your backyard! This guide will walk you through the process of growing cherries from seeds in Florida, ensuring you have a fruitful and rewarding experience.

Choosing the Right Cherry Variety

The first step to growing cherries from seeds in Florida is selecting the right variety. Not all cherry trees thrive in the Sunshine State‘s humid, subtropical climate. Opt for varieties that are known for their heat tolerance and disease resistance.

Here are some cherry varieties that are well-suited for Florida:

• Sweetheart Cherry: This variety is known for its large, sweet cherries and its ability to withstand Florida’s heat and humidity.
• Stella Cherry: Stella cherries are another excellent choice for Florida, producing a bountiful harvest of sweet, dark red cherries.
• Black Tartarian Cherry: This variety is a reliable producer of large, dark red cherries with a slightly tart flavor.
• Montmorency Cherry: A popular choice for sour cherries, Montmorency is a hardy variety that can withstand Florida’s climate.

Gathering Cherry Seeds

To start your cherry tree journey, you’ll need to gather seeds. You can obtain these from fresh, ripe cherries found at your local grocery store or farmers market.

Here’s how to extract the seeds:

1. Choose ripe cherries: Select cherries that are plump, firm, and deeply colored.
2. Remove the flesh: Gently squeeze the cherry to remove the flesh and expose the seed.
3. Clean the seed: Wash the seed thoroughly under running water to remove any remaining flesh.

Preparing the Seeds for Planting

Once you have your seeds, you’ll need to prepare them for planting. This process involves scarification, which weakens the seed coat and allows for easier germination.

1. Soak the seeds: Place the seeds in a bowl of warm water and soak them for 24 hours. This will help to soften the seed coat and promote germination.
2. Scarify the seeds: After soaking, you can scarify the seeds by gently rubbing them with sandpaper or using a nail file. This will create tiny scratches on the seed coat, allowing water and oxygen to penetrate more easily.
3. Stratify the seeds: Cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Place the seeds in a plastic bag filled with moist vermiculite or peat moss and store them in the refrigerator for 6-8 weeks. This simulates the winter conditions that cherry seeds need to germinate.

Planting the Cherry Seeds

After the stratification period, it’s time to plant your cherry seeds.

1. Choose a suitable container: Use individual pots or seed trays with drainage holes. Fill them with a well-draining potting mix.
2. Plant the seeds: Sow the seeds about 1/2 inch deep in the potting mix.
3. Water thoroughly: Water the seeds gently and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Provide warmth and light: Place the containers in a warm, sunny location. Maintain a temperature of around 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit for optimal germination.

Nurturing Young Cherry Trees

Once your cherry seeds germinate, you’ll need to provide them with proper care to ensure healthy growth.

1. Thinning seedlings: If multiple seedlings emerge from a single seed, thin them out to leave only the strongest one.
2. Watering and fertilizing: Water the seedlings regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Use a balanced fertilizer every few weeks to provide essential nutrients.
3. Hardening off: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves, start hardening them off by gradually exposing them to outdoor conditions. This will help them acclimate to the sun and wind.

Transplanting to the Garden

When your cherry seedlings are about 1-2 feet tall, they are ready to be transplanted to your garden.

1. Choose a sunny location: Cherry trees require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
2. Prepare the soil: Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
3. Dig a hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball of the seedling.
4. Transplant the seedling: Gently remove the seedling from its container and place it in the hole. Backfill the hole with soil, ensuring that the root ball is level with the ground.
5. Water thoroughly: Water the newly planted tree deeply to settle the soil around the roots.

Caring for Your Cherry Tree

Once your cherry tree is established in your garden, it’s essential to provide ongoing care to ensure its health and productivity.

1. Watering: Water your cherry tree deeply and regularly, especially during dry periods.
2. Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer to your cherry tree in early spring and again in mid-summer.
3. Pruning: Prune your cherry tree annually to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches.
4. Pest and disease control: Monitor your cherry tree for signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate measures to control them.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

With proper care, your cherry tree should start producing fruit within 3-5 years after planting.

1. Pollination: Cherry trees are self-incompatible, meaning they need pollen from a different variety to produce fruit. If you have only one cherry tree, consider planting another variety nearby to ensure pollination.
2. Harvesting: When the cherries are fully ripe, they will be firm and brightly colored. Harvest them by gently pulling them from the branches.
3. Enjoying your cherries: Cherries can be eaten fresh, used in desserts, or preserved for later enjoyment.

The Sweet Finale: A Cherry Tree’s Journey

Growing cherries from seeds in Florida can be a rewarding experience. By following these steps, you can cultivate your own cherry tree and enjoy the delicious fruits of your labor. Remember, patience and proper care are key to success.

Top Questions Asked

Q: Can I grow cherry trees from store-bought cherries?

A: Yes, you can grow cherry trees from seeds found in store-bought cherries. However, the resulting trees may not produce fruit that is identical to the parent tree.

Q: How often should I fertilize my cherry tree?

A: Fertilize your cherry tree twice a year, once in early spring and again in mid-summer.

Q: What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees?

A: Some common pests and diseases that can affect cherry trees include aphids, scale insects, leaf spot, and brown rot.

Q: How long does it take for a cherry tree to start producing fruit?

A: Cherry trees typically start producing fruit within 3-5 years after planting.

Q: What are the best ways to enjoy my homegrown cherries?

A: You can enjoy your homegrown cherries fresh, use them in desserts, or preserve them by freezing, canning, or drying.