Taking a cutting from a cherry tree is a great way to propagate a rewarding fruit crop. It allows gardeners to grow their own fruit trees at home, something that can be enjoyed for many years. Cherry trees, especially sour cherries, are attractive plants with beautiful spring and early summer blossoms which can brighten up any garden.
If you want to grow your own cherry tree from a cutting, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, propagation of cherry trees is best done with semi-softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. To take a cutting, use a sharp knife or pruning shears to cut a branch that is 6-12 inches long and has at least two buds. Cut the branch just below the bud and make sure that it is healthy and Straight. Remove any leaves or flowers from the bottom three inches of the cutting.
Next, dip the bottom of the cutting into a rooting hormone and stick the cutting into a potting mix and water lightly. Make sure the potting mix is moist and that the pot has drainage holes. The pot should then be placed in an area that receives indirect sunlight. Cover the pot with a clear plastic bag or sheet to create a warm, humid environment. This will help encourage root growth. After about four weeks, roots should start to appear.
When the cutting has grown roots, you can then transplant it into the soil. Be sure to water the soil before transplanting, as this will make it easier to dig the hole. Dig a hole twice the size of the root ball and place the cutting in, making sure it’s level with the ground. It’s important to cover the root ball with soil and water it well. It’s also important to prune your tree regularly to encourage a healthy shape and size.
It’s important to remember that cherries are best grown in areas that receive direct sunlight for most of the day. They are also vulnerable to frost and cold temperatures, so you may need to provide extra protection in the form of mulch or frost cloth. Additionally, it’s important to choose a cherry variety that is suited to your area in order to get the best fruit.
Watering & Soil Requirements
To ensure that your cherry tree has all the nutrients it needs to thrive and produce fruit, it’s important to provide moist, well-draining soil. Additionally, cherry trees should be watered regularly throughout the growing season, especially during dry spells. Add an extra inch or two of water per week, but be careful not to over water as this can lead to root rot. Mulching around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and keep the soil cool.
Fertilizing & Pruning
Fertilizing your cherry tree twice during the growing season can help your tree reach its full potential. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package. Additionally, pruning is important to maintain the health of your cherry tree. Prune the tree in late winter, removing any dead or diseased branches and shaping the canopy. This will help ensure a bountiful harvest from your cherry tree.
Pests & Diseases
Cherry trees are susceptible to a range of pests and diseases, including cherry leaf spot, which can cause significant leaf damage. To prevent pests and diseases, check your tree regularly for any signs of damage. If you find signs of pests or disease, it’s important to act quickly to treat the tree and prevent further damage.
Harvesting
When the harvest time arrives, cherries can be picked when they are ripe. Ripe cherries will be a dark red colour and will come off the tree easily. Be sure to handle the cherries carefully to avoid damaging them and storing them in the refrigerator as soon as possible to keep them fresh.
Storage
For longer term storage, cherries can be frozen or preserved. To freeze them, spread them out on a baking tray and place in the freezer. Once frozen, transfer them to airtight containers or bags. To preserve cherries, you can make jams and preserves, dry them, or use them to make cordial or liqueur.
Grafting
Grafting is another way to propagate cherry trees. This process involves combining a branch from the desired variety of cherry tree with the rootstock of a hardy and disease-resistant tree. This will ensure that the desired fruit characteristics are passed to the new tree. Grafting should be done in the winter, using a sharp knife and a piece of waxed string or tape for securing the graft.
Avoiding Common Mistakes
Propagating cherry trees can be a rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes that gardeners should be aware of. Thin the tree annually to help maintain a healthy canopy, remove dead or diseased branches as soon as you notice them, and prune regularly to encourage a good shape and size. Make sure to use a rooting hormone to help ensure that your cuttings take root. Finally, check your tree regularly for any sign of pests or disease and take appropriate action as soon as possible.
