What To Know
- To stratify, place the seeds in a moist paper towel or damp sand and refrigerate them for 6-8 weeks.
- Carefully place the seedling in the hole and fill it with soil, firming it around the base of the plant.
- With patience and proper care, you can grow a thriving cherry tree that will provide you with a lifetime of sweet, juicy cherries.
Growing cherries from dried seeds is a rewarding and cost-effective way to enjoy the sweet taste of homegrown fruit. With proper care and attention, you can transform those tiny, dried seeds into thriving cherry trees that will provide years of delicious harvests. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you embark on this exciting gardening adventure:
1. Seed Preparation
Before planting, it’s essential to prepare the dried cherry seeds to improve their germination rate.
- Stratification: Stratification simulates the natural process of winter exposure that cherry seeds experience in the wild. To stratify, place the seeds in a moist paper towel or damp sand and refrigerate them for 6-8 weeks. This cold treatment breaks down the seed coat and promotes germination.
2. Choosing a Planting Location
Select a sunny spot with well-drained soil. Cherries prefer a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0. Amend the soil with compost or manure to enhance fertility and drainage.
3. Planting the Seeds
- Depth: Plant the seeds about 1/2 inch deep in the soil, with the pointed end facing down.
- Spacing: Space the seeds 6-8 inches apart to allow for proper root development.
- Watering: Water the seeds thoroughly after planting and keep the soil moist but not soggy.
4. Germination and Care
- Germination Time: It can take several weeks to several months for cherry seeds to germinate. Be patient and keep the soil consistently moist.
- Thinning: Once seedlings emerge, thin out the weaker ones to leave the strongest and healthiest saplings.
5. Transplanting Seedlings
When the seedlings are about 6-8 inches tall, they can be transplanted to their permanent location. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and as deep as the root ball. Carefully place the seedling in the hole and fill it with soil, firming it around the base of the plant.
6. Growing and Pruning
- Growth Habits: Cherry trees can grow up to 20-30 feet tall. Prune them regularly to control their size and shape.
- Fertilization: Fertilize cherry trees annually with a balanced fertilizer.
- Pollination: Most cherry varieties require cross-pollination to produce fruit. Plant at least two different varieties that bloom at the same time to ensure pollination.
7. Harvesting and Enjoying
- Harvest Time: Cherries typically ripen in the summer. Harvest them when they are fully colored and soft to the touch.
- Storage: Fresh cherries can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. They can also be frozen for longer storage.
The Sweet Rewards of Homegrown Cherries
Planting dried cherry seeds is a labor of love that will yield delicious and rewarding harvests. With patience and proper care, you can grow a thriving cherry tree that will provide you with a lifetime of sweet, juicy cherries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I grow cherries from store-bought cherries?
A: Yes, you can grow cherries from store-bought cherries. However, it’s important to choose organic cherries as they are less likely to have been treated with chemicals that can inhibit germination.
Q: How long does it take for cherry seeds to germinate?
A: Germination time can vary depending on the variety and the conditions. Some seeds may germinate within a few weeks, while others may take several months.
Q: How often should I water my cherry trees?
A: Water cherry trees deeply and regularly, especially during hot and dry weather. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
