A baby cherry plant is a young cherry tree, typically in its first few years of growth. Cultivating a cherry tree from its early stages allows gardeners to observe its development into a maturing plant, eventually producing fruit. Understanding the specific needs of these young trees ensures their healthy establishment.
Growing Your Baby Cherry Plant
Starting a baby cherry plant can be achieved from seed or by planting a bare-root or potted sapling.
From Seed
Growing from seed requires stratification. Cherry seeds need cold, moist conditions to break dormancy, mimicking winter. This involves placing cleaned seeds in a moist medium (e.g., peat moss or sand) in a sealed container and refrigerating them at 35-45°F (1-7°C) for 3 to 4 months. After stratification, sow seeds indoors in pots with well-draining seed-starting mix, about 0.5 inches deep. Seedlings emerge within weeks and need bright, indirect light.
From Sapling
Opting for a bare-root or potted sapling provides a quicker start. Select a sapling with healthy, unblemished bark and a robust root system. Bare-root trees should have moist roots free from rot or damage. The planting site should receive full sunlight (at least six to eight hours daily) and have well-draining soil, as cherry trees are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil surface. For bare-root trees, create a small soil mound in the center of the hole to spread roots over. Backfill gently, tamping lightly to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the soil. The graft union, if present, should remain several inches above the soil line to prevent scion rooting.
Essential Care for Young Cherry Plants
Watering
Watering is important during the first few years as the root system establishes. Young trees require about one inch of water per week, from rainfall or irrigation, especially during dry periods. Water deeply and infrequently, encouraging roots to grow deeper. Applying water directly to the base of the tree helps minimize fungal issues.
Sunlight
Cherry trees thrive in full sun, which provides energy for robust growth and future fruit production. Insufficient light can lead to stunted growth, weakened branches, and increased susceptibility to pests and diseases.
Soil
Cherry trees prefer well-draining, loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0 to 7.0). Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter like compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage and aeration. Sandy soils benefit from organic amendments to enhance water retention and nutrient availability.
Fertilization
Fertilization for young cherry trees should be cautious. During their first year, newly planted trees generally do not require supplemental fertilizer, as excessive nutrients can damage developing roots. After the first year, apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins. Follow product instructions to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to rapid, weak growth.
Protecting Your Young Cherry Plant
Pests and Diseases
Pests like aphids, cherry fruit flies, and borers can infest young trees, while diseases such as powdery mildew, brown rot, and bacterial canker can occur. Regularly inspect leaves, stems, and bark to detect problems early. Maintain good air circulation and proper sanitation, like removing fallen leaves and diseased plant material, to prevent disease spread.
Environmental Factors
Late spring frosts can damage newly emerging leaves and flowers. Cover young trees with burlap or a frost blanket when freezing temperatures are expected. Sunscald, caused by intense winter sun or direct summer sun on young bark, can be prevented by applying diluted white latex paint to the trunk or using tree wraps.
Animal Damage
Animals, including deer, rabbits, and rodents, can damage young cherry plants by browsing on shoots or gnawing on bark. Install a physical barrier, such as a sturdy wire mesh cage or tree guard around the trunk, to deter these animals. Ensure the barrier is tall enough to prevent deer browsing and buried slightly to stop burrowing animals.
Early Development and Future Growth
Growth Rate
Young cherry trees typically grow 1 to 2 feet in height per year, depending on the cultivar and growing conditions. This initial period focuses on developing a strong root system and establishing main structural branches.
First Fruiting
The first blossoms and fruit generally occur several years after planting. Sweet cherry varieties may produce fruit within 3 to 5 years, while some sour cherry types can fruit within 2 to 3 years. Initial fruiting may be light, with yields increasing as the tree matures. The tree prioritizes structural growth over fruit production in its early life.
Pruning
Basic structural pruning helps young cherry trees establish a strong framework. This pruning focuses on developing a central leader or a modified central leader system, encouraging well-spaced scaffold branches. Remove any crossing, rubbing, or weak branches to maintain tree health and promote good air circulation. Early pruning guides the tree’s shape, contributing to its long-term stability and productivity.