The ‘Pricus’ cherry (Prunus cerasus ‘Pricus’) is a specific sour cherry cultivar recognized for its early ripening. Like other sour cherries, it is particularly valued for its culinary versatility.
Understanding ‘Pricus’ Cherry
‘Pricus’ cherry trees are smaller than sweet cherry varieties, making them suitable for home gardens. They grow as dwarf to semi-dwarf trees, often reaching a mature height of around 8 to 15 feet. The fruit of the ‘Pricus’ is characterized by its bright red color, which can deepen as it fully ripens, and has a tart flavor ideal for baking and preserves. A key feature of the ‘Pricus’ is its early ripening, often being one of the first cherry varieties to mature in the season. These cherries are generally hardy and thrive in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8.
Planting and Cultivation
Successful cultivation of a ‘Pricus’ cherry tree begins with careful site selection. These trees need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight daily. Well-draining soil is essential, as cherry trees are susceptible to root rot in waterlogged conditions. The ideal soil is sandy loam to loamy, which balances drainage with moisture retention, and has a slightly acidic to neutral pH ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
To plant, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and about 12 inches deep. Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the excavated soil to enhance fertility and improve soil structure. Place the tree in the center of the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Backfill with the amended soil and gently firm it to remove air pockets. After planting, water thoroughly to settle the soil around the roots.
Consistent watering is important, particularly for young trees during their first growing season. Water newly planted ‘Pricus’ cherry trees deeply, two to three times a week, ensuring water reaches at least 12 inches into the soil. Established trees require about one inch of water per week during the growing season, adjusting for rainfall and dry periods. Applying organic mulch around the base helps conserve soil moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
Fertilization supports growth and fruit production. For young trees, a light application of a balanced granular fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 N-P-K ratio, in early spring is beneficial. Mature ‘Pricus’ cherry trees are “light eaters” and may not require heavy fertilization if planted in nutrient-rich soil. If growth is less than eight inches annually, apply a low-nitrogen fertilizer in early spring, a few weeks before blooming. Avoid fertilizing past July to prevent late-season growth vulnerable to winter damage.
Pruning is vital for maintaining the health, shape, and productivity of ‘Pricus’ cherry trees. Sour cherry trees are best pruned in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant, before new growth emerges. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, cutting back to healthy wood. Thin crowded areas to improve air circulation and light penetration, reducing disease risk and promoting even fruit ripening. An open center or vase-shaped structure is recommended to maximize light and air circulation.
Harvesting and Fruit Utilization
‘Pricus’ cherries ripen early, ready for harvest in late spring to early summer. The fruit is ready to pick when fully red and slightly soft. Harvesting is usually done by hand to avoid damaging the delicate fruits and to ensure they retain their stems, which helps prolong their shelf life. A mature ‘Pricus’ cherry tree can yield 10 to 15 quarts annually for dwarf varieties.
The tart flavor of ‘Pricus’ cherries makes them suitable for many culinary applications. They are excellent for baking in pies, tarts, and cobblers, where their acidity provides a balanced flavor. These cherries are also good for making preserves, jams, and jellies, as their pectin and tartness aid setting. They can be eaten fresh or juiced for beverages.
Addressing Common Challenges
‘Pricus’ cherry trees can face various pests and diseases. Cherry leaf spot, a fungal disease, causes small, circular lesions on leaves that can eventually lead to a “shot-hole” appearance and premature defoliation. To manage this, ensure good air circulation around the tree through proper pruning and promptly clean up fallen leaves to remove fungal spores.
Brown rot is a fungal disease affecting blossoms, twigs, and fruit, especially in wet, humid conditions. Infected blossoms shrivel, and fruits turn brown or develop soft, rotting spots. Remove mummified fruits from the tree and ground, and prune infected branches to reduce disease spread.
Pests like the black cherry aphid can infest leaves and growing tips, causing them to curl and distort. Aphids feed on plant sap and excrete honeydew, which can lead to sooty mold. A strong water spray can dislodge them, or horticultural oils can be applied for severe infestations. The western cherry fruit fly larvae can tunnel inside fruit, making it inedible. Monitor for adult flies with traps and apply treatments at fruit ripening to prevent infestations.