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Stop buying cherries in the store. Grow them at home with this step-by-step guide

Stop buying cherries in the store. Grow them at home with this step-by-step guide

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id overwatering, as cherries don’t like wet feet. A good rule of thumb is to water the tree once a week during dry periods, increasing the frequency during hot weather.

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  • Fertilizing: Cherry trees are generally low-maintenance when it comes to fertilizer, but they benefit from a light application of balanced fertilizer (NPK 10-10-10) in early spring before new growth starts. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit production.
  • Pruning: Regular pruning is essential to maintain the health and shape of your cherry tree. In early spring, remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Pruning also helps the tree develop a strong structure and allows more sunlight to reach the inner branches, promoting better fruit production.
  • Pest and Disease Control: Keep an eye out for common cherry tree pests such as aphids, spider mites, and cherry fruit flies. If you spot any, treat them with organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. Also, watch for fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which can affect cherry trees. Good air circulation, proper spacing, and removing fallen leaves can help prevent disease.

    • Step 5: Pollination

    Most cherry trees are not self-pollinating, meaning you’ll need at least two trees (of different varieties) for cross-pollination. For sweet cherries, this is essential for fruit set, while some sour cherries can be self-pollinating. However, even self-pollinating trees can benefit from cross-pollination, resulting in higher yields.

    Ensure that the varieties you plant bloom at the same time to encourage successful pollination. You can also attract pollinators, such as bees, by planting other flowering plants nearby.

    Step 6: Harvesting Your Cherries

    Patience is key when growing cherries, as it typically takes 3-5 years for a cherry tree to produce its first fruit. Once your tree starts to bear fruit, harvesting is a rewarding experience.

    Cherries are best harvested when they’re fully ripe. For sweet cherries, this means they should be deep red (or yellow for certain varieties). For sour cherries, they should be bright red, but a little tart to the taste. Gently twist or cut the cherries from the stem, being careful not to damage the tree.

    Step 7: Enjoy Your Homegrown Cherries

    Once harvested, you can enjoy your cherries fresh, or use them in a variety of recipes like pies, jams, jellies, tarts, or even homemade cherry syrup. You can also freeze cherries for later use, ensuring you have access to them throughout the year.

    Final Thoughts

    Growing cherries at home may take some time and effort, but the reward of fresh, juicy cherries from your own garden is well worth it. By following this step-by-step guide, you can successfully plant, care for, and harvest your own cherries, enjoying the satisfaction of having your very own fruit tree. Whether you have a large garden or just a small space, it’s possible to grow cherries and enjoy their delicious, natural sweetness whenever you want.

    So stop buying cherries at the store, and start growing your own! Happy gardening!