Cherry trees, with their stunning blooms and delightful fruits, can be a valuable addition to any backyard garden. Cold hardy cherry varieties, in particular, are excellent choices for gardeners in cooler climates. This guide will explore the best cold hardy cherry types, planting techniques, maintenance, pest control, and how to enjoy a delicious harvest year-round.
Understanding Cold Hardy Cherry Varieties
Cold hardy cherries are species that can withstand harsh winters and thrive in USDA hardiness zones 3 to 7. These varieties can produce both sweet and tart cherries, and they usually require fewer chilling hours than their warmer-climate cousins. Popular cold hardy varieties include:
- North Star: A dwarf Montmorency variety, perfect for small gardens, yielding tart cherries.
- Meteor: A compact tree with sweet-tasting cherries, ideal for pies and fresh eating.
- Carmine Jewel: A hardy bush cherry known for its sweet, dark red fruit.
- Bing: A popular sweet cherry that can adapt to relatively cold conditions.
- Montmorency: The classic tart cherry, known for its excellent flavor in preserves and pies.
Selecting the Right Variety
When choosing a cherry variety, consider the following:
- Climate: Ensure the chosen variety can tolerate your local climate’s harshness.
- Space: Determine how much space you have in your garden. Dwarf varieties are excellent for small areas.
- Purpose: Decide whether you want sweet cherries for fresh eating or tart cherries for processing.
Planting Cold Hardy Cherries
Proper planting is crucial for the success of your cherry tree. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Choosing the Right Location
Select a site that receives at least 6-8 hours of sunlight daily. The soil should be well-draining, rich in organic materials, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0).
2. Preparing the Site
- Soil Preparation: Test your soil using a soil test kit. Amend it with compost if necessary.
- Spacing: Dwarf varieties can be planted 3-4 feet apart, while standard trees need 10-15 feet.
3. Planting Process
- Digging the Hole: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball.
- Setting the Tree: Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the graft union (swelling on the trunk) is above soil level.
- Backfilling: Fill in the hole with soil, gently firming it to eliminate air pockets.
- Watering: Water thoroughly after planting.
4. Mulching
Apply a layer of organic mulch (wood chips or straw) around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Caring for Cold Hardy Cherry Trees
After planting, cherry trees require ongoing care to ensure healthy growth and fruit production.
1. Watering
Adequate watering is vital, especially during the first growing season. Here are some guidelines:
- Frequency: Water deeply once a week, adjusting frequency based on rainfall.
- Signs of Stress: Look for wilting leaves or dry soil as signs that more water is needed.
2. Fertilization
Fertilize in early spring, just before the growing season begins. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer with a 10-10-10 NPK ratio. Follow package instructions for the correct amount based on tree size.
3. Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining shape, promoting airflow, and enhancing fruit production.
- When to Prune: Late winter (February to early March) is the best time to prune, while the tree is still dormant.
- How to Prune:
- Remove dead or diseased branches.
- Thin out crowded branches to improve sunlight penetration.
- Shape the tree into an open center to maintain good airflow.
4. Pest and Disease Management
Cold hardy cherry trees can be susceptible to various pests and diseases. Here are common issues and solutions:
-
PPests:
- Cherry Fruit Fly: Use repellents or traps during the fruiting season.
- Aphids: Spray with insecticidal soap if infestations occur.
-
Diseases:
- Bacterial Canker: Prune out infected branches and provide good air circulation.
- Powdery Mildew: Spray with a fungicide if necessary, ensuring to follow label directions.
Harvesting and Storing Cherries
Harvesting cherries at the right time is crucial for flavor and quality.
1. Knowing When to Harvest
- Sweet Cherries: They should be fully colored and sweet to the taste.
- Tart Cherries: Harvest when they turn bright red and taste tart, typically a week before full ripeness.
2. Proper Harvesting Technique
- Use a gentle twisting motion to remove cherries from the stem, avoiding any damage to the fruit or tree.
- Wear gloves to avoid staining your hands.
3. Storing Cherries
- Fresh Storage: Store unwashed cherries in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing: Wash, pit, and freeze cherries on a baking sheet before transferring them to storage bags.
- Canning and Preserving: Consider making jams or jellies with excess cherries for long-term storage.
Enjoying Your Harvest
Cherries can be enjoyed in numerous culinary applications:
- Fresh: Nothing beats a bowl of fresh cherries on a hot summer day!
- Baking: Incorporate cherries into pies, tarts, or crumbles.
- Canning: Preserve them in syrup or as jams to enjoy the flavors throughout the year.
- Savory Dishes: Use cherries in salads or with meats for a flavor contrast.
Conclusion
Growing cold hardy cherry varieties in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, providing delicious fruit and beautiful blooms. With proper care and attention, you can enjoy an abundant harvest for many years to come. Be sure to follow the tips and guidelines provided, and you’ll be well on your way to cultivating a cherry grove in your own garden.
FAQs
1. What is the best time to plant cold hardy cherry trees?
- The best time to plant is in early spring or late fall when the tree is dormant.
2. Do cherry trees require cross-pollination?
- Some varieties are self-pollinating, but most benefit from cross-pollination for better fruit yield.
3. How long does it take for a cherry tree to bear fruit?
- Most cherry trees will begin producing fruit within 3 to 5 years after planting.
4. Can cherry trees survive extreme cold temperatures?
- Yes, many cold hardy varieties can tolerate temperatures as low as -30°F.
5. What can I do if my cherry tree is not producing fruit?
- Check for issues such as poor pollination, inadequate sunlight, or pests. Improving these conditions may help enhance fruit production.
6. Are there any pests that particularly target cherry trees?
- Yes, common pests include cherry fruit fly, aphids, and spider mites. Regular monitoring and intervention can keep these pests at bay.
7. Can I grow cherries in pots?
- Yes, dwarf varieties thrive in pots, making them a great option for limited spaces.
By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can successfully grow cold hardy cherry varieties in your backyard and savor the sweet rewards of your labor!