Grow Cherry Trees From Seed: A Complete Guide

So, you're thinking about growing your own cherry tree from seed? That's awesome! It's a rewarding project, especially for home gardeners who love a good challenge. While commercial cherry growers usually opt for grafting to ensure consistent fruit quality, planting cherry pits is a fun way for us home growers to try our luck and maybe even get a unique cherry variety. But, growing cherry trees from seed isn't as straightforward as planting an apple seed. There are a few things you need to know to increase your chances of success. Let's dive in!

Why Grow Cherries from Seed?

Okay, so why bother with seeds when you can just buy a grafted tree? Well, there are a few reasons. First off, it's an adventure! You never quite know what you're going to get, and that's part of the fun. The resulting fruit might be similar to the parent cherry, or it might have its own distinct characteristics. It’s like a genetic lottery! Plus, it's a fantastic learning experience. You'll gain a deeper understanding of the cherry life cycle and the magic of plant propagation. And let's be honest, there's something incredibly satisfying about nurturing a tree from a tiny seed to a fruit-bearing beauty.

Another reason is the challenge. Growing cherry trees from seed requires patience and care, but the payoff is worth it. Imagine the bragging rights you'll have when you can say, "I grew this cherry tree from a seed!" Plus, you'll be preserving genetic diversity. Seed-grown trees have a wider genetic makeup than grafted ones, which can make them more resilient to diseases and environmental changes. However, it's crucial to be aware that cherries grown from seeds might not produce fruit identical to the parent tree. In fact, they may even yield bitter or less desirable fruit. This is why commercial growers prefer grafting, ensuring they get the specific cherry variety they want. But for home growers, this element of surprise can be part of the charm.

Finally, consider the cost. Buying grafted cherry trees can be expensive, especially if you want multiple trees. Starting from seed is a budget-friendly way to expand your orchard or simply enjoy the process of nurturing a plant from its earliest stages. Just remember, it takes time and effort, but the rewards – both tangible and intangible – can be well worth it. So, if you're up for a gardening adventure, growing cherry trees from seed might be the perfect project for you!

Getting Started: What You'll Need

Alright, so you're ready to embark on your cherry-growing adventure? Awesome! Before you get your hands dirty, let's gather the supplies you'll need. First and foremost, you'll need cherry seeds, of course! But not just any cherry will do. You want to start with fresh, ripe cherries from a tree you know produces tasty fruit. This doesn't guarantee your tree will produce the same quality cherries, but it's a good starting point.

You can get your cherry seeds from fresh cherries you buy at the grocery store or farmer's market, or even better, from a friend's or neighbor's tree if they're willing to share. Sweet cherries like Bing or Rainier are popular choices, but remember that the fruit your tree produces may differ. Once you have your cherries, enjoy the juicy fruit and save the pits. You'll also need some peat moss or a similar planting medium, small containers or plastic bags for stratification, and eventually, larger pots for transplanting your seedlings.

Don't forget about the tools! A small knife or nutcracker can be helpful for cracking open the pits to get to the seeds, although this step is optional. You'll also want some gardening gloves to keep your hands clean, a watering can or spray bottle for keeping the soil moist, and labels to keep track of which seeds you've planted. And lastly, you'll need a good dose of patience! Growing cherry trees from seed takes time, so be prepared for a bit of a waiting game. But trust me, the journey is part of the fun. So, gather your supplies, put on your gardening gloves, and let's get started!

Step-by-Step: Planting Your Cherry Seeds

Okay, you've got your supplies, you're feeling motivated – let's get those cherry seeds in the ground! Well, almost. The first step in growing cherry trees from seed is a process called stratification. Don't worry, it sounds more complicated than it is. Stratification essentially mimics the natural winter conditions that cherry seeds need to break dormancy and germinate. Think of it as giving the seeds a little wake-up call after their long winter nap.

Step 1: Stratification

To stratify your cherry seeds, you'll need to simulate winter conditions. Clean the pits thoroughly, removing any remaining fruit pulp. This helps prevent mold growth during stratification. There are a couple of ways to do this, but the most common method involves using moist peat moss or a similar planting medium. Place the cherry seeds in a plastic bag or container filled with moistened peat moss. Make sure the peat moss is damp, not soaking wet. You want it to feel like a wrung-out sponge.

Seal the bag or container and place it in your refrigerator for about 2-3 months. The ideal temperature for stratification is between 32°F and 45°F (0°C and 7°C). This cold, moist environment tricks the seeds into thinking they've been through winter. Check the seeds periodically to ensure the peat moss stays moist and to look for any signs of mold. If you see mold, gently rinse the seeds and replace the peat moss. Patience is key here! This stratification period is crucial for successful germination.

Step 2: Germination

After the stratification period, it's time to wake those seeds up! Remove the cherry seeds from the refrigerator and inspect them. Some seeds may have already started to sprout in the bag, which is a great sign! If not, don't worry, they're just waiting for the right conditions. Now, you have a choice: you can either crack the pits open to extract the seeds or plant the entire pit. Cracking the pits can speed up germination, but it also carries the risk of damaging the seed. If you're feeling cautious, planting the whole pit is a perfectly fine option.

Fill small pots with a well-draining potting mix. Plant the cherry seeds about an inch deep, either individually or a few per pot. Water the soil gently until it's moist but not soggy. Place the pots in a warm location with indirect sunlight. A sunny windowsill or a greenhouse is ideal. Keep the soil consistently moist, but avoid overwatering, which can lead to rot. Germination can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months, so be patient and keep an eye on your pots. Once you see seedlings emerge, congratulations! You're one step closer to growing your own cherry tree.

Step 3: Transplanting

As your cherry seedlings grow, they'll need more space to spread their roots. Once they have a few sets of true leaves (the leaves that look like miniature cherry leaves), it's time to transplant them into larger pots. Gently remove the seedlings from their original pots, being careful not to damage the delicate roots. If you planted multiple seeds in one pot, you may need to gently separate the seedlings.

Fill larger pots with a well-draining potting mix and create a small hole in the center. Place the seedling in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. Gently fill in the surrounding soil and water thoroughly. Place the transplanted seedlings in a location with plenty of sunlight. Cherry trees need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day to thrive. Continue to water regularly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.

Step 4: Ongoing Care

Growing cherry trees from seed is a long-term commitment, but it's a rewarding one. As your seedlings grow into saplings, they'll need ongoing care to stay healthy and strong. This includes regular watering, fertilization, and protection from pests and diseases. In the spring and summer, fertilize your cherry trees with a balanced fertilizer to promote growth. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates.

Keep an eye out for common cherry tree pests and diseases, such as aphids, spider mites, and cherry leaf spot. Treat any infestations or infections promptly to prevent them from spreading. You may also need to prune your cherry tree to maintain its shape and encourage fruit production. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. With proper care and attention, your cherry tree will continue to grow and thrive, and hopefully, one day, it will reward you with delicious cherries!

Caring for Your Cherry Seedlings

So, you've successfully germinated your cherry seeds and transplanted the seedlings – awesome work! Now comes the crucial part: nurturing those little guys into healthy, thriving cherry trees. Caring for cherry seedlings requires a bit of attention and consistency, but it's totally doable, and the rewards are well worth the effort. Let's dive into the key aspects of seedling care.

Light and Location

Sunlight is like fuel for plants, and cherry trees are no exception. Your cherry seedlings need plenty of it – at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. A sunny windowsill, a greenhouse, or a spot in your garden that gets lots of sunshine are all great options. If you're growing your seedlings indoors, you might consider using grow lights to supplement natural sunlight, especially during the darker winter months. Insufficient light can lead to weak, leggy growth, so make sure your seedlings are getting their daily dose of sunshine.

The location you choose also plays a role in your seedlings' health. Protect them from strong winds, which can damage delicate stems and leaves. If you're growing them outdoors, a sheltered spot near a fence or building can provide some protection. Also, be mindful of temperature fluctuations. Cherry seedlings prefer consistent temperatures, so avoid placing them in areas that experience extreme heat or cold. A stable environment will help them grow strong and healthy.

Watering and Humidity

Water is essential for all living things, and cherry seedlings are no different. But it's important to strike the right balance – too much water can lead to root rot, while too little can cause dehydration. The key is to keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy. Water your seedlings whenever the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. When you water, do it thoroughly, ensuring that the water reaches the roots.

Humidity also plays a role in seedling health. Cherry seedlings prefer moderate humidity levels. If the air is too dry, especially indoors, you can increase humidity by placing a tray of water near your seedlings or using a humidifier. Misting the leaves occasionally can also help. However, avoid over-misting, as this can create conditions that promote fungal diseases. Finding the right balance of moisture and humidity will help your seedlings thrive.

Fertilizing

Just like humans, plants need nutrients to grow and stay healthy. Cherry seedlings benefit from regular fertilization, especially during their active growing season. A balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula, is a good choice. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer packaging for application rates and frequency. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the seedlings.

Organic fertilizers, such as compost tea or fish emulsion, are also excellent options. These provide nutrients in a slow-release form, which is less likely to burn the seedlings. Fertilize your seedlings every few weeks during the growing season, and reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant season. Proper fertilization will give your cherry seedlings the nutrients they need to grow strong and vigorous.

Pest and Disease Control

Unfortunately, pests and diseases can sometimes target cherry seedlings. Keep a close eye on your seedlings for any signs of trouble, such as discolored leaves, spots, or insects. Common pests that can affect cherry trees include aphids, spider mites, and Japanese beetles. Diseases like cherry leaf spot and powdery mildew can also be a problem.

If you spot any pests or diseases, take action promptly to prevent them from spreading. Insecticidal soap or neem oil can be effective for controlling many common pests. Fungicides can be used to treat fungal diseases. Organic gardening practices, such as promoting good air circulation and removing diseased leaves, can also help prevent problems. Regular inspection and prompt treatment will help keep your cherry seedlings healthy and pest-free.

Pruning and Training

Pruning and training are important for shaping your cherry tree and encouraging fruit production. However, young cherry seedlings don't need much pruning. Focus on removing any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. You can also lightly prune the seedlings to encourage branching and a strong central leader. Pruning is best done in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.

Training your cherry tree involves guiding its growth to create a desired shape. This can be done by using stakes or trellises to support the branches. Training helps to create a strong, well-structured tree that will be able to support a heavy crop of cherries in the future. With proper care and attention, your cherry seedlings will grow into beautiful, productive trees that you can enjoy for years to come.

Potential Challenges and Troubleshooting

Okay, so you're on your way to growing cherry trees from seed, but let's be real – gardening isn't always a smooth ride. There can be bumps in the road, challenges that pop up along the way. But don't worry, we're here to help you navigate those potential hurdles. Let's talk about some common challenges you might encounter when growing cherry trees from seed and how to troubleshoot them.

Low Germination Rate

One of the most frustrating challenges is a low germination rate. You've followed all the steps, stratified your seeds, planted them carefully, but... nothing. Or maybe just a few sprouts pop up. Don't despair! There are a few reasons why this might happen. One possibility is that the seeds weren't viable to begin with. Not all cherry seeds are created equal. If you got your seeds from store-bought cherries, they might not be from a variety that breeds true from seed, or they might not have been properly pollinated.

Another common cause of low germination is improper stratification. If the seeds weren't kept cold enough or moist enough during stratification, they might not break dormancy properly. Make sure to follow the stratification instructions carefully, and check the seeds periodically to ensure they're staying moist. Overwatering or underwatering after planting can also affect germination. The soil should be consistently moist, but not soggy. Finally, patience is key. Some cherry seeds can take several months to germinate, so don't give up too soon!

Seedling Diseases

Seedling diseases can be a major setback for any gardener. Damping-off, a fungal disease that causes seedlings to rot at the soil line, is a common problem. Overwatering and poor air circulation can contribute to damping-off. To prevent it, use a well-draining potting mix, avoid overwatering, and ensure good air circulation around your seedlings. If you see signs of damping-off, remove the affected seedlings immediately to prevent the disease from spreading.

Other diseases, such as powdery mildew and leaf spot, can also affect cherry seedlings. These diseases are often caused by fungal pathogens and can be exacerbated by humid conditions. To prevent them, provide good air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and consider using a fungicide if necessary. Regular inspection of your seedlings can help you catch diseases early, before they become a major problem.

Pest Infestations

Pests can also be a nuisance for cherry seedlings. Aphids, spider mites, and other insects can suck the sap from the leaves, weakening the seedlings. Regular inspection is key to catching pest infestations early. If you see pests, you can try washing them off with a strong stream of water or using insecticidal soap or neem oil.

Beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings, can also help control pests. Consider attracting these beneficial insects to your garden by planting flowers that they like. In severe cases, you may need to use a stronger insecticide, but always follow the instructions carefully and choose a product that is safe for cherry trees.

Slow Growth

Sometimes, cherry seedlings just seem to grow very slowly. This can be frustrating, but it's often a sign of an underlying issue. Insufficient sunlight is a common cause of slow growth. Cherry seedlings need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive. If they're not getting enough light, they'll grow slowly and may become leggy. Make sure your seedlings are in a sunny location, and consider using grow lights if necessary.

Nutrient deficiencies can also slow growth. Fertilize your seedlings regularly with a balanced fertilizer to ensure they're getting the nutrients they need. Overwatering or underwatering can also affect growth. The soil should be consistently moist, but not soggy. Finally, remember that growing cherry trees from seed takes time. Be patient and consistent with your care, and your seedlings will eventually grow into strong, healthy trees.

From Seed to Orchard: The Long-Term Vision

Okay, you've planted your cherry seeds, nurtured your seedlings, and overcome the initial challenges. Now, let's zoom out and talk about the long-term vision. Growing cherry trees from seed is a marathon, not a sprint. It takes time, patience, and a bit of planning to transform a tiny seed into a fruit-bearing tree. So, what can you expect in the years to come?

Time to Fruition

One of the most important things to understand is that cherry trees grown from seed take longer to produce fruit than grafted trees. Grafted trees, which are propagated by attaching a branch from a known variety onto a rootstock, can start producing fruit in just a few years. Seed-grown trees, on the other hand, typically take 5-10 years to bear their first cherries.

This longer wait time is because seed-grown trees need to mature and develop a strong root system before they can devote energy to fruit production. While the wait can be challenging, it's also part of the adventure. You'll have the satisfaction of watching your tree grow and mature over the years, and the first harvest will be all the more rewarding.

Fruit Quality and Variety

Another important consideration is fruit quality. As we've mentioned before, cherry trees grown from seed may not produce fruit that is identical to the parent tree. This is because cherry seeds are the result of sexual reproduction, which means that the offspring inherit traits from both parents. The resulting fruit could be similar to the parent cherry, or it could be quite different – sweeter, tarter, or even bitter.

This genetic variability is one of the exciting aspects of growing cherry trees from seed. You might end up with a unique cherry variety that is perfectly suited to your taste and growing conditions. However, it's also important to be prepared for the possibility that the fruit might not be as delicious as you hoped. If you're primarily interested in a specific cherry variety, grafting is a more reliable option. But if you're open to a little experimentation, growing cherry trees from seed can be a fun way to discover new flavors.

Space Requirements

Before you plant your cherry seedlings in the ground, it's essential to consider their mature size. Cherry trees can grow quite large, reaching heights of 20-30 feet or more, depending on the variety. Make sure you have enough space in your yard to accommodate a mature tree. Plant your seedlings at least 20 feet apart to allow for good air circulation and sunlight penetration.

If you have limited space, you might consider planting dwarf or semi-dwarf cherry varieties. These trees grow to a smaller size, typically 10-15 feet tall, and are better suited for small gardens. You can also prune your cherry tree to control its size and shape. Regular pruning helps to maintain a manageable size and encourages fruit production.

Long-Term Care

Once your cherry tree starts producing fruit, it will need ongoing care to stay healthy and productive. This includes regular watering, fertilization, and pruning. Cherry trees need plenty of water, especially during dry periods. Water deeply and regularly, especially when the fruit is developing. Fertilize your tree in the spring with a balanced fertilizer to provide the nutrients it needs for growth and fruit production.

Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of your cherry tree. Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. You may also need to thin the fruit crop to prevent overbearing, which can weaken the tree. With proper long-term care, your cherry tree will provide you with delicious fruit for many years to come. So, embrace the journey, be patient, and enjoy the fruits (literally!) of your labor.

Final Thoughts: Is Growing Cherries from Seed Right for You?

So, we've covered a lot about growing cherry trees from seed. It's a rewarding but challenging endeavor, and by now, you might be wondering: is it the right project for you? The answer, as with most gardening questions, is: it depends! Let's recap the key considerations to help you decide. If you're looking for a quick harvest and guaranteed fruit quality, growing cherry trees from seed might not be the best choice. Grafted trees will give you fruit much sooner and ensure you get the specific variety you want.

However, if you're up for a gardening adventure, love a good challenge, and are willing to wait several years for your first harvest, growing cherry trees from seed can be incredibly rewarding. It's a fantastic way to learn about plant propagation, connect with nature, and potentially discover a unique cherry variety. Plus, there's something truly special about nurturing a tree from a tiny seed to a fruit-bearing giant.

Consider your goals and expectations. If you're dreaming of a specific cherry pie recipe and need a certain type of cherry, stick with a grafted tree. But if you're open to surprises and enjoy the process of experimentation, growing cherry trees from seed can be a delightful experience. Think about the space you have available. Cherry trees can get quite large, so make sure you have enough room for a mature tree. Dwarf varieties are a good option for smaller gardens, but even those need space to grow.

Finally, be honest with yourself about the time and effort you're willing to invest. Growing cherry trees from seed requires patience, consistency, and a bit of troubleshooting. You'll need to stratify the seeds, care for the seedlings, and protect the growing trees from pests and diseases. It's a long-term commitment, but if you're passionate about gardening, the rewards are well worth the effort. So, take a deep breath, weigh your options, and decide if growing cherry trees from seed is the right adventure for you. Happy gardening!