The Ultimate Guide to Growing Cherry Trees From Seed at Home

Cherry trees are a popular choice for home fruit growers due to their beautiful blossoms and delicious fruits. While many people opt to purchase young cherry trees from nurseries, growing cherry trees from seeds can be a rewarding and cost-effective alternative. In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the process of growing cherry trees from seed, from selecting the right cherry seed to protecting your young trees from wildlife. By following these steps, you can enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms in your own backyard and savor the taste of fresh cherries each year.

Table of Contents

Selecting the Perfect Cherry Seed

Before you get started, it’s important to choose the right type of cherry seed for your growing conditions and personal preferences. Here are some tips to help you select the perfect cherry seed for your home orchard:

Consider your growing climate: Different varieties of cherry trees thrive in different climates. Make sure to choose a cherry seed that is well-suited to your specific growing zone.
Zones for sour cherries: Sour cherry trees are more cold-hardy and can thrive in zones 4-7.
Zones for sweet cherries: Sweet cherry trees prefer milder climates and do well in zones 5-7.
Self-pollinating cherry tree: If you have limited space or only want to plant a single tree, consider choosing a self-pollinating cherry variety.
Talk to an orchardist: If you’re unsure about which cherry seed to choose, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a local orchardist or gardening expert.
Only use fresh local cherries for pits: For the best chance of success, use pits from fresh, locally grown cherries rather than store-bought fruits.

Preparing, Planting, and Germinating Your Cherry Seed

Once you have selected the perfect cherry seed, it’s time to prepare, plant, and germinate it. There are two main methods for propagating cherry trees from seeds: planting them in the spring or planting them in the fall. Here’s how you can do both:

Preparing and planting cherry seeds in the spring:

Enjoy some delicious cherries and save the seeds.
Clean the seeds and remove any remaining pulp.
Place the seeds in a damp paper towel and store them in the refrigerator for 10-12 weeks to stratify.
Plant the stratified seeds in a container filled with well-draining soil.
Keep the soil moist and place the container in a sunny location.
Water the seeds regularly and wait for them to germinate.

Preparing and planting cherry seeds in the fall:

Collect fresh cherry seeds in the fall.
Plant the seeds directly in the ground in a sunny location.
Cover the seeds with a light layer of mulch to retain moisture.
Monitor the seeds for sprouting in the spring.
Transplant the seedlings to a permanent location once they reach 10-12 inches tall.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to provide your cherry seeds with the necessary care and attention to help them thrive.

Protecting Your Cherry Trees From Wildlife

As your cherry trees begin to grow, it’s essential to protect them from wildlife that may be interested in nibbling on the tender bark and foliage. Deer, rabbits, and woodchucks are common culprits that can damage young fruit trees. Here are some tips for protecting your cherry trees from wildlife:

Wrap young trees in burlap: Wrap your young cherry trees loosely in burlap in late autumn to deter deer and other animals from chewing on the bark.
Remove burlap in early spring: Be sure to remove the burlap before the trees start to blossom in early April to allow sunlight and rain to reach the trees.
Monitor for wildlife damage: Keep an eye out for signs of wildlife damage, such as nibbled bark or missing leaves, and take action promptly to protect your trees.

By taking proactive measures to protect your cherry trees from wildlife, you can increase their chances of reaching maturity and producing a bountiful harvest of cherries.

How Fast Do Cherry Trees Grow?

One common question that many aspiring cherry tree growers have is, “How long does it take for a cherry tree to grow from seed?” Typically, cherry trees will begin bearing fruit within seven to ten years when grown from seeds. However, you can shorten the time to fruiting by grafting a cherry tree seedling onto existing cherry tree stock.

While waiting for your cherry trees to mature and bear fruit, you can learn about proper pruning techniques, care practices, and troubleshooting tips to ensure the health and vitality of your trees. By attending to your cherry trees’ needs and providing them with the right growing conditions, you can look forward to enjoying a plentiful harvest of cherries for years to come.

In conclusion, growing cherry trees from seeds can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience for home fruit growers. By following the tips and guidelines outlined in this article, you can successfully grow your cherry trees from seed and enjoy the beauty and bounty they provide. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, planting cherry trees from seeds is a wonderful way to connect with nature and cultivate your own orchard at home. So roll up your sleeves, grab some cherry pits, and get ready to watch your cherry trees blossom and flourish in your own backyard. Happy planting!