Cherry tree

Prunus avium · Tree/Shrub

A fruit tree loved for its spring blossom and early-summer crop. Sweet cherries need sun, good drainage and often a second variety for pollination; dwarfing rootstocks keep trees small.

Care at a glance

Light

Full sun, at least 8 hours

Water

About 1 in per week in dry weather, more while fruit swells

Soil

Deep, well-drained, fertile loam, pH 6.0–7.0

Temperature

Needs winter chill; hardy to about −20 °F

Spacing

15–20 ft apart; 8–12 ft on dwarfing rootstock

Container

At least 20 gallons, on a dwarfing rootstock

Harvest

Early to midsummer; first fruit in 3–5 years (estimated)

Lifespan

Perennial; 20–30 years or more

When?

Plant bare-root trees while dormant in late autumn to early spring; potted trees in autumn or spring (estimated).

Step by step

1. Check whether your variety is self-fertile; if not, plant a compatible partner nearby.
2. Choose a sunny spot with good air drainage, away from frost pockets.
3. Plant with the graft union 2–3 in above soil level.
4. Stake young trees for the first two years.
5. Water deeply in dry spells and mulch 2–3 in around the base.
6. Prune in summer after harvest, not winter, to limit disease entry.
7. Net trees before fruit colors to keep birds off.

Common problems

Pets

ASPCA lists cherry as toxic to cats and dogs; leaves, stems and pits are the concern. If in doubt, ask your vet.

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