Who doesn’t love cherries? This fruit is not only delicious, but it’s healthy as well. Thankfully, you don’t need a green thumb to grow cherries in your own backyard. However, there are some simple steps you should follow to receive successful results. This includes everything from choosing the right location to picking out the correct type of soil.
1. Figure out if your area is a suitable environment for growing cherries. First and foremost, if you’re unsure whether or not your particular growing zone is compatible for harvesting cherries, contact your local garden center. They will give you a good idea of any problems or limitations you may come across. Also, research the different kinds of cherries. Some will do better in certain locations than others, so select a variety that is well-matched to the climate in which you live.
2. Harvest your cherry plant in a spot that provides lots of sunshine and proper circulation of air. For starters, grow your plant in an area that has plenty of space nearby. Like any part of nature, as the plant gets older, it will continue to grow and branch out. Dwarf size cherry plants need approximately 12 feet. Standard size cherry plants require twice the amount of distance between plants. Make sure that you don’t plant your cherries in an area that you used to harvest tomatoes, melons, strawberries or peaches, since they are very susceptible to numerous diseases including Verticillium wilt. We recommend that you choose an elevated site instead of one in low areas where colder temperatures settle.
3. Use soil that is well drained. When you place your cherry plants into the ground, employ good, rich soil. Then, cover the roots with it. The hole should not be much deeper than the original container in which the plant was purchased.
4. Every year during the spring, fertilize your cherry plants. Wait until after the harvesting time to fertilize cherry plants. Then, water, prune and spray them based on the particular variety you bought. Keep in mind that some types are hardier than others.
5. Protect your plants from birds and other animals. In order to actually enjoy the cherries and not have them eaten before harvesting, you need to protect them from birds and other animals. Put up netting and other kinds of fencing to surround the perimeters of your cherry plants.
Photo credit: Thinkstock
The post 5 Tips To Growing Your Own Cherries appeared first on Gardening Technique.
