Cherry trees are not just revered for their delicious fruits; they also offer spectacular spring blossoms, making them a dual-purpose addition to any garden. In Britain, where the climate and soil conditions can vary significantly, selecting the right cherry tree for your yard involves understanding the intricacies of cherry tree varieties, their climatic needs, and compatibility with your local environment. This guide provides detailed insights into choosing the best cherry trees suitable for various British gardens, ensuring a successful and bountiful cultivation.
The Basics of Cherry Trees
A nursery expert from CRJ Fruit Trees explains that cherry trees belong to the genus Prunus, and they are primarily divided into two main types: sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and sour cherries (Prunus cerasus). Sweet cherries are often eaten fresh and are popular in warmer, southern regions of Britain. In contrast, sour cherries thrive in slightly cooler conditions and are excellent for cooking and baking, often found in northern and eastern parts of the country.
Climate Considerations
The UK climate is generally favourable for growing cherry trees, but local variations can influence the choice of the most suitable type. Sweet cherry trees require a warmer microclimate and are more sensitive to cold, late frosts which can damage their blossoms and affect fruit production. Therefore, they are better suited to sheltered spots in southern and western regions where milder conditions prevail. Sour cherry trees are more cold-hardy and can tolerate the cooler, more variable conditions typically found in northern and eastern Britain.
It’s crucial to consider the specific microclimate of your garden, such as exposure to wind and frost pockets, as these factors can significantly impact the success of growing cherry trees.
Soil Requirements
Cherry trees prefer well-drained, fertile soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. Heavy clay soils can be problematic, leading to waterlogging and root diseases. If your garden soil is heavy or compacted, consider improving the soil structure by incorporating plenty of organic matter and possibly creating raised beds or planting on mounds to enhance drainage.
Good air circulation is also vital to reduce the risk of fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which cherry trees can be susceptible to in humid conditions. When planting cherry trees, ensure there’s enough space between them and other large plants or structures to promote a healthy airflow.
Selecting Cherry Tree Varieties for British Gardens
When selecting a cherry tree, the variety is just as crucial as the type. The right variety not only ensures adaptation to the local climate but also meets your taste preferences and usage intentions. Here are some recommended varieties for both sweet and sour cherries, tailored for different regions across Britain.
Sweet Cherry Varieties
- Stella – Stella is a popular choice among British gardeners due to its self-fertility, meaning it does not require another tree to produce fruit. It produces large, sweet fruits and is known for its good resistance to splitting in rainy weather. Stella is suitable for warmer southern regions but can also be grown in moderately cool areas with some protection.
- Sunburst – This variety is also self-fertile and is known for producing very large fruits with good flavour. Sunburst cherries have a deep red, almost black colour when ripe. It’s particularly suited to the southern and central regions of the UK, where the climate allows for optimal ripening.
- Lapins – Lapins can tolerate slightly cooler climates, making it a versatile choice for many British gardens. The cherries are large, dark red, and have a firm texture, with a resistance to cracking. Like Stella, Lapins is self-fertile, reducing the need for multiple trees unless increased pollination and yield are desired.
Sour Cherry Varieties
- Morello – A classic choice for cooler British climates, Morello is extremely hardy and adaptable to less than ideal conditions, including northern and shaded gardens. It produces dark red, almost black cherries that are sour and perfect for culinary use in pies and jams.
- Nabella – Known for its resistance to fruit rot and fungal diseases, Nabella is another excellent choice for sour cherry lovers. It thrives in a variety of soil types and climates, producing dark, juicy fruits ideal for desserts and preserves.
Choosing the right cherry tree for your garden involves considering both the climatic and soil conditions of your area as well as the specific characteristics and needs of each variety. With careful selection, you can enjoy both the aesthetic beauty and delicious fruits of cherry trees in your own yard. In the next section, we will delve into the best practices for planting and caring for cherry trees, ensuring they thrive and produce a plentiful harvest.
Best Practices for Planting and Caring for Cherry Trees
Planting and maintaining cherry trees require attention to detail to ensure they grow healthy and yield abundant fruit. From the correct planting technique to ongoing care, here are some key aspects to consider when managing cherry trees in your garden.
Planting Your Cherry Tree
In Britain, the dormant season, which lasts from late autumn to early spring, is the ideal time to establish cherry trees. This timing allows the tree to establish roots in the cooler months before the stress of the growing season begins.
Steps for Planting:
- Choose the Right Location: As discussed earlier, cherry trees need a sunny, sheltered location with good air circulation and well-drained soil.
- Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole that is thrice the width of the root ball but no deeper. Amend the soil with well-rotted organic matter if it is not rich in nutrients.
- Planting Depth: Place the tree so that the graft point (visible as a bump on the stem) is just above the soil level. This is crucial to prevent rotting of the stem and ensure the tree’s health.
- Watering: After planting, water the tree generously to settle the soil around the roots and help reduce transplant shock.
Watering and Mulching
Cherry trees, especially young ones, need consistent moisture until they are fully established. Water newly planted trees at least once a week, more during dry spells.
Mulching helps retain soil moisture and suppress weeds. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch such as wood chips or well-rotted manure around the base of the tree, but not touching the trunk, to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to disease.
Fertilization and Pruning
Cherry trees benefit from annual fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruiting. Make use of a slow-releasing fertiliser that is balanced and contains potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. Apply in the early spring, before the onset of new growth.
Pruning is essential for cherry trees to maintain their shape, remove diseased or damaged branches, and promote better air circulation through the canopy. Prune during the dormant season to minimize disease risk and stress on the tree.
- For sweet cherries: Prune to open up the canopy, which helps increase sun exposure and air movement around the fruit, reducing disease risk and improving fruit quality.
- For sour cherries: These are generally pruned to encourage a bushier habit, which can make harvesting easier and improve yield.
Pest and Disease Management
Cherry trees can be susceptible to several pests and diseases, such as cherry fruit flies, aphids, and bacterial canker. Regular monitoring and early intervention can prevent most issues.
- Pest Control: Use environmentally friendly options like horticultural oils or insecticidal soaps to control aphid populations. Pheromone traps can be effective against fruit flies.
- Disease Prevention: Ensure good air circulation around your trees and avoid overhead watering to reduce the humidity that diseases thrive in. Remove any fallen debris and diseased branches promptly to minimize infection sources.
Harvesting and Storage
Cherry trees typically begin to bear fruit in their fourth year, with peak production around years five to seven. Harvesting usually takes place in late spring through mid-summer, depending on the variety and local climate.
Cherries ripen quickly and are best picked when fully colored and firm. They do not ripen after picking, so timing is crucial. Store harvested cherries in a cool, dark place and handle them gently to avoid bruising, which can lead to rapid spoilage.
By following these guidelines for selecting, planting, and caring for cherry trees, you can ensure your garden not only looks beautiful during the flowering season but also produces a bountiful crop of delicious cherries. Whether for fresh eating, baking, or preserving, cherries offer a versatile and delightful harvest that rewards the attentive gardener year after year.
