Nanking cherry (Prunus tomentosa) is a versatile and resilient shrub valued for its ornamental appeal and tart, edible fruit. Introduced to the United States in 1882, this plant is a hardy addition to many gardens. Known for abundant spring blossoms and a productive yield of small, red cherries, it offers a rewarding experience for home gardeners. With proper attention, a Nanking cherry can thrive for up to 50 years, providing beauty and fruit.
Site Selection and Planting
Nanking cherries perform best in full sun, ideally receiving at least eight hours of direct sunlight daily, though they can tolerate partial shade. While adaptable to various soil types, including sandy, loamy, or clay, well-draining conditions are necessary to prevent root issues. The plant prefers soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.5.
When planting, consider spacing for the mature shrub, which can reach 6 to 15 feet tall and wide. For individual bushes, space 8 to 15 feet apart; for a hedge, space 6 to 10 feet apart. Nanking cherries require cross-pollination to produce fruit, so plant at least two shrubs within 100 feet of each other for a good yield. Fall is the best time for transplanting, allowing plants to establish roots before summer heat. Prior to planting, amending the soil with organic matter like compost improves its structure and fertility.
Ongoing Maintenance
Maintaining Nanking cherry plants involves watering, fertilization, and pruning to encourage robust growth and fruit production.
Watering
Young Nanking cherry bushes require consistent moisture to develop a strong root system. During their first few seasons, water them weekly, or twice a week in warmer weather, ensuring deep penetration. Once established, Nanking cherries exhibit considerable drought tolerance. If your region receives at least 12 inches of annual rainfall, supplemental watering may not be needed for mature plants, though additional irrigation benefits them during prolonged dry periods. Drip irrigation helps deliver water directly to the roots while minimizing disease risk by keeping foliage dry.
Fertilizing
Nanking cherries are low-maintenance regarding nutrient needs and often do not require regular fertilization. However, if the plant shows signs of nutrient deficiency or produces small fruits despite adequate sunlight, a light application of a balanced fertilizer can be beneficial. A granular fertilizer with an NPK ratio such as 10-10-10 or compost can provide necessary nutrients. Over-fertilization can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit development, so soil testing is recommended to determine specific needs. Applying a layer of mulch around the base helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and slowly release organic matter into the soil.
Pruning
Pruning is essential for shaping the Nanking cherry, promoting air circulation, and enhancing fruit yield. The optimal time for pruning is late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches to maintain plant health. Thinning out older, less productive stems from the center of the bush improves light penetration and air flow, increasing fruit production and reducing fungal issues. For mature plants, aim to remove three to five old canes annually. Nanking cherries can also be pruned to maintain a desired size or shape, such as a compact bush or a hedge.
Pest and Disease Management
Nanking cherries are robust plants, though they can encounter common pests and diseases. Vigilance and timely intervention help manage these issues.
Common insect pests include aphids and spider mites, which feed on the undersides of leaves, causing stippling or distorted growth. Borers and the Western Cherry Fruit Fly, which lays eggs in ripening fruit, are also concerns. Diseases include branch cankers, verticillium wilt, and coryneum blight, which manifests as purplish-black spots on leaves. Root rot and crown rot can occur in waterlogged conditions, leading to wilting and decline.
Management strategies focus on prevention and prompt action. Ensuring good air circulation through proper pruning helps deter fungal diseases. Sanitation, such as removing fallen leaves and affected branches, limits disease spread.
For minor pest infestations, insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective. If fruit flies are a recurring problem, applying spinosad as cherries begin to ripen can help. Avoiding overwatering and ensuring well-drained soil prevents root and crown rot.
Harvesting and Uses
Nanking cherry fruits ripen from late spring to early summer, usually in June or July, depending on the climate. The fruit is ready for harvest when it turns bright red and softens. These small cherries have a tart flavor, though they can range from sweet to tart.
A mature Nanking cherry bush can yield a significant harvest, often between 10 and 50 pounds of fruit per season. Due to their soft texture and short shelf life, harvest them promptly. Birds are fond of the ripe fruit, so netting the plants as the cherries begin to color can protect your harvest. Nanking cherries are versatile in the kitchen; they can be enjoyed fresh. They are excellent for making jams, jellies, pies, juices, syrups, or wine, offering a distinct tart flavor to culinary creations.