Choosing the right cherry tree for your garden or orchard can be a daunting task. With countless varieties available, each boasting its own unique flavor profile, growth habit, and ripening time, it’s essential to understand what makes a cherry truly exceptional for fresh eating. This comprehensive guide will delve into the world of edible cherries, highlighting some of the most delectable and rewarding varieties, helping you select the perfect tree to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Understanding Cherry Types: Sweet vs. Sour
Before exploring specific varieties, it’s crucial to understand the two main categories of edible cherries: sweet cherries and sour (or tart) cherries. These two types differ significantly in their taste, texture, and best uses.
Sweet cherries, as the name suggests, are prized for their sugary flavor and firm, juicy flesh. They are primarily enjoyed fresh, straight from the tree. They are also commonly used in pies, jams, and other desserts, although their sweetness often necessitates less added sugar compared to sour cherries.
Sour cherries, on the other hand, have a distinctly tart and acidic flavor. While some varieties can be eaten fresh (with a certain acquired taste!), they are primarily valued for their exceptional baking qualities. Their intense flavor holds up well in pies, jams, sauces, and preserves, providing a delightful tanginess that balances sweetness perfectly. They are also excellent for making cherry juice and dried cherries.
Knowing whether you prefer the intense sweetness of a Bing cherry or the tartness of a Montmorency is the first step in finding the perfect tree.
Top Sweet Cherry Varieties for Home Gardens
If you’re dreaming of plucking plump, sweet cherries right from your own tree, several varieties stand out as excellent choices for home gardeners. These varieties are known for their exceptional flavor, reliable fruit production, and relative ease of care.
Bing Cherry: The Classic Choice
The Bing cherry is perhaps the most iconic and widely recognized sweet cherry variety. Known for its large size, dark red (almost black) skin, and intensely sweet flavor, the Bing cherry is a classic for a reason. Its firm, juicy flesh makes it a delight to eat fresh, and it also holds up well in pies and other desserts.
However, Bing cherries are not self-pollinating, meaning they require a compatible pollinator tree nearby to produce fruit. Popular pollinators for Bing include Lambert, Rainier, and Stella cherries. Additionally, Bing cherries are best suited for regions with mild winters and warm summers, as they are susceptible to cracking in areas with excessive rainfall during ripening.
Rainier Cherry: A Honeyed Delight
The Rainier cherry is a golden-yellow cherry with a rosy blush, prized for its exceptionally sweet and delicate flavor. Its flavor is often described as honeyed or almost vanilla-like. Rainiers are generally slightly more delicate than Bing cherries and require careful handling to prevent bruising.
Like Bing, Rainier cherries are not self-pollinating and require a compatible pollinator. Bing, Lambert, and Stella are all excellent choices. Rainier cherries are also somewhat susceptible to cracking, so it’s essential to provide adequate drainage and avoid overwatering during ripening.
Stella Cherry: Self-Pollinating Sweetness
If you have limited space or prefer the convenience of a self-pollinating variety, the Stella cherry is an excellent option. Stella was the first commercially available self-pollinating sweet cherry, and it remains a popular choice for home gardeners.
Stella cherries are medium-sized, dark red, and have a good, sweet flavor. While their flavor may not be quite as intense as Bing or Rainier, their self-pollinating nature makes them a reliable and easy-to-grow option. Stella cherries also serve as a good pollinator for other sweet cherry varieties.
Lapins Cherry: Another Self-Fertile Option
Similar to Stella, the Lapins cherry is another self-fertile sweet cherry variety. It produces large, dark red cherries with a rich, sweet flavor and a firm texture. Lapins cherries are known for their high productivity and disease resistance, making them a relatively low-maintenance option.
Lapins cherries also ripen later than some other sweet cherry varieties, extending the harvest season. They are a good choice for gardeners in cooler climates, as they are more cold-hardy than Bing or Rainier.
Exploring Sour Cherry Varieties for Baking and Preserving
For those who prefer the tangy flavor of sour cherries, several varieties are particularly well-suited for baking, preserving, and other culinary applications. These cherries offer a unique flavor profile that complements sweet ingredients perfectly.
Montmorency Cherry: The Baking Standard
The Montmorency cherry is the most widely planted sour cherry variety and is considered the gold standard for baking. Its bright red skin, yellow flesh, and intensely tart flavor make it ideal for pies, jams, sauces, and cherry juice.
Montmorency cherries are self-pollinating, making them easy to grow even in smaller gardens. They are also relatively cold-hardy and disease-resistant. Montmorency cherries are typically harvested in mid-summer, providing a burst of tart flavor to your summer desserts.
Early Richmond Cherry: An Early Harvest
The Early Richmond cherry is another popular sour cherry variety, known for its early ripening time. Its medium-sized, bright red cherries have a tart and slightly acidic flavor, making them suitable for pies, jams, and preserves.
Early Richmond cherries are also self-pollinating and relatively cold-hardy. Their early ripening time makes them a good choice for gardeners in regions with short growing seasons.
North Star Cherry: Compact and Productive
If you have limited space, the North Star cherry is an excellent option. This dwarf sour cherry tree typically grows to only 8-10 feet tall, making it ideal for small gardens or even container growing.
Despite its compact size, the North Star cherry produces a bountiful crop of dark red cherries with a tart and flavorful taste. The cherries are perfect for pies, jams, and other baked goods. North Star cherries are self-pollinating and relatively cold-hardy.
Considerations for Choosing the Right Cherry Tree
Beyond the specific variety, several other factors should be considered when selecting a cherry tree for your garden. These factors can significantly impact the tree’s health, productivity, and overall success.
Climate and Hardiness
Cherry trees have varying degrees of cold hardiness and heat tolerance. It’s crucial to choose a variety that is well-suited to your local climate. Check the USDA plant hardiness zone map to determine which zone you live in, and then select a cherry tree that is rated for that zone.
Some cherry varieties are also more susceptible to cracking in areas with high rainfall during ripening. If you live in a region with wet summers, choose a cracking-resistant variety or take steps to protect your trees from excessive moisture.
Pollination Requirements
As mentioned earlier, some cherry varieties are self-pollinating, while others require a compatible pollinator tree nearby to produce fruit. If you choose a non-self-pollinating variety, ensure you have enough space to plant a compatible pollinator.
When selecting a pollinator, it’s essential to choose a variety that blooms at the same time as your main cherry tree. Local nurseries and extension offices can provide recommendations for suitable pollinators in your area.
Rootstock
The rootstock of a cherry tree significantly influences its size, vigor, and disease resistance. Dwarf rootstocks, such as Gisela 5, produce smaller trees that are easier to manage and harvest. Semi-dwarf rootstocks, such as Krymsk 5, offer a balance between size and productivity. Standard rootstocks, such as Mazzard, produce larger, more vigorous trees.
Choose a rootstock that is appropriate for your space and desired tree size. Dwarf rootstocks are generally better suited for small gardens, while standard rootstocks are more appropriate for larger orchards.
Disease Resistance
Cherry trees can be susceptible to various diseases, such as cherry leaf spot, brown rot, and bacterial canker. Choose varieties that are known for their disease resistance to minimize the need for chemical treatments.
Proper pruning, good air circulation, and well-drained soil can also help prevent disease problems.
Space and Sunlight
Cherry trees require ample space to grow and thrive. Be sure to choose a planting location that provides plenty of sunlight (at least 6-8 hours per day) and well-drained soil. Avoid planting cherry trees in areas that are prone to standing water or have heavy clay soil.
Consider the mature size of the tree when selecting a planting location. Dwarf cherry trees can be planted closer together than standard-sized trees.
Planting and Caring for Your Cherry Tree
Once you’ve selected the perfect cherry tree, proper planting and care are essential for ensuring its long-term health and productivity.
Planting
Plant cherry trees in the spring or fall, when the weather is cool and the soil is moist. Dig a hole that is twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen any circling roots. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole with soil, gently tamping it down to remove any air pockets. Water the tree thoroughly after planting.
Watering
Cherry trees need regular watering, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply and infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot.
Fertilizing
Fertilize cherry trees in the spring with a balanced fertilizer. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for application rates. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can promote excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
Pruning
Prune cherry trees annually to maintain their shape, remove dead or diseased wood, and improve air circulation. The best time to prune cherry trees is in late winter or early spring, before the buds begin to swell.
Pest and Disease Control
Monitor cherry trees regularly for pests and diseases. If you notice any problems, take action promptly to prevent them from spreading. Consult with your local extension office for recommendations on appropriate pest and disease control measures.
Enjoying Your Cherry Harvest
After all your hard work, the moment of truth arrives: harvest time! The timing of the harvest depends on the variety of cherry and the local climate. Sweet cherries are typically harvested in late spring or early summer, while sour cherries are harvested in mid-summer.
Cherries are ripe when they are fully colored and slightly soft to the touch. Gently pick the cherries from the tree, being careful not to damage the fruit. Freshly picked cherries can be stored in the refrigerator for several days.
Whether you enjoy them fresh, bake them into pies, or preserve them into jams, the taste of homegrown cherries is a reward in itself. With a little planning and care, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious cherries for years to come.
What are the key differences between sweet cherry varieties and sour cherry varieties?
Sweet cherry varieties are primarily enjoyed fresh and are known for their high sugar content and generally larger size. These cherries are best consumed straight from the tree or used in desserts where sweetness is desired. They typically have a lower acidity than sour cherries and a more delicate texture.
Sour cherry varieties, on the other hand, are more tart and are often used in baking, jams, preserves, and juices due to their intense flavor. While they can be eaten fresh, their tartness is usually preferred in cooked applications where the sugar content can be adjusted. They also tend to be smaller and softer than sweet cherries.
Which sweet cherry variety is considered the most reliable for home gardeners?
The ‘Stella’ cherry is often considered one of the most reliable sweet cherry varieties for home gardeners due to its self-fertile nature. This means it doesn’t require another cherry tree nearby for pollination, making it an excellent choice for those with limited space or who want to ensure fruit production. It also produces large, dark red, heart-shaped fruit with a delicious flavor.
Furthermore, ‘Stella’ cherries are relatively disease-resistant and adaptable to a range of growing conditions, making them a less demanding option for beginner cherry tree growers. Their consistent fruit production and relatively easy care contribute to their popularity among home gardeners.
What factors should I consider when choosing a cherry tree variety for my location?
When choosing a cherry tree variety, consider your local climate and hardiness zone. Some varieties are more tolerant of cold winters or hot summers than others. Check the variety’s specific chill hour requirements (the number of hours below a certain temperature needed for proper fruit set) to ensure it aligns with your region’s typical winter conditions.
Additionally, consider the amount of space you have available, as some cherry trees can grow quite large. Disease resistance is another important factor, especially if you live in an area prone to specific cherry tree diseases. Finally, think about your personal taste preferences – do you prefer sweet or tart cherries, and what will you primarily use the cherries for (fresh eating, baking, or preserving)?
How can I ensure proper pollination for my cherry tree if it is not self-fertile?
To ensure proper pollination for a non-self-fertile cherry tree, you’ll need to plant a compatible pollinator variety nearby. This means choosing a different cherry variety that blooms at the same time as your chosen tree and is known to be a good pollinator for it. Check with your local nursery or fruit tree specialist for recommendations on compatible pollinators.
Plant the pollinator tree within a reasonable distance of the non-self-fertile tree, generally within 50 feet, to allow bees and other pollinators to easily transfer pollen between the trees. It’s also beneficial to provide a habitat that attracts pollinators, such as planting flowering plants nearby and avoiding the use of pesticides that could harm them.
What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees, and how can I manage them?
Common pests that affect cherry trees include aphids, cherry fruit flies, and spider mites. Aphids can be controlled with insecticidal soap or a strong spray of water. Cherry fruit flies can be managed with sticky traps and insecticides if necessary. Spider mites can be addressed with miticides or by increasing humidity around the tree.
Common diseases include cherry leaf spot, brown rot, and bacterial canker. Cherry leaf spot can be prevented with good air circulation and treated with fungicides. Brown rot can be controlled by removing infected fruit and using fungicides. Bacterial canker requires pruning out infected branches and can be prevented by ensuring the tree is healthy and not stressed. Always follow the instructions on pesticide and fungicide labels carefully.
Besides eating them fresh, what are some popular culinary uses for different cherry varieties?
Sweet cherry varieties are excellent for fresh eating, but they also shine in desserts like pies, tarts, and cobblers. They can be used to make cherry jam, preserves, and sauces. Their sweet flavor also makes them a delicious addition to smoothies and fruit salads.
Sour cherry varieties are commonly used in baking due to their tartness, which balances well with sugar. They are a staple in cherry pies, crumbles, and clafoutis. They also make excellent preserves, jams, and sauces, providing a tangy contrast to sweet dishes. Additionally, sour cherries are often used to make cherry juice and cordials.
How long does it typically take for a newly planted cherry tree to start producing fruit?
It generally takes between 3 to 5 years for a newly planted cherry tree to start producing fruit. This timeframe can vary depending on the variety, the age of the tree at planting, and the overall growing conditions. Dwarf varieties may fruit sooner than standard-sized trees.
Factors such as proper watering, fertilization, pruning, and sunlight exposure can all influence how quickly a cherry tree begins to bear fruit. Providing optimal care and protection from pests and diseases will help to encourage earlier fruit production. Some nurseries sell trees that are already partially mature and may bear fruit within a year or two of planting.