Planting cherry seeds can be a rewarding project for gardeners looking to grow their own cherry trees. While growing a tree from seed takes time and patience, it allows you to experience every stage of the tree’s growth, from seedling to full maturity. Cherry trees grown from seed may not produce fruit exactly like the parent tree, as cherries often cross-pollinate, creating a unique variety. However, the experience of nurturing a cherry tree from seed is both educational and fulfilling. Here’s a guide on how to successfully plant cherry seeds and grow a cherry tree in your garden.

Selecting Cherry Seeds

The first step in planting cherry seeds is to select seeds from fresh cherries. You can save seeds from cherries you’ve enjoyed or purchase fresh cherries from a local market. It’s essential to use seeds from ripe, organic cherries to ensure they’re viable for planting.

Sweet cherries, such as those from the popular ‘Bing’ or ‘Rainier’ varieties, tend to grow best in regions with mild climates, while tart cherries, like ‘Montmorency,’ are better suited for colder climates. Keep in mind that cherries grown from seed will often need a similar environment to the parent tree, so consider your local climate when choosing your seeds.

Preparing the Cherry Seeds for Planting

Cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to germinate successfully. This process mimics the natural winter dormancy that seeds undergo in the wild, signaling to the seed that it’s time to grow when spring arrives. Here’s how to stratify cherry seeds:

1. Clean and Dry the Seeds: After removing the seeds (pits) from fresh cherries, wash them to remove any fruit residue, which can attract mold. Allow the seeds to air dry for a few days.

2. Cold Stratification: Place the clean, dry seeds in a container with moist peat moss or sand. Seal the container or bag and place it in the refrigerator, where it should stay for at least 10-12 weeks. This period of cold will prepare the seeds for germination. Check the seeds periodically to ensure the peat or sand remains slightly moist, but avoid making it too wet.

3. Removing from the Fridge: After the stratification period, remove the seeds from the fridge and allow them to come to room temperature. They are now ready for planting.

Planting the Cherry Seeds

Once your cherry seeds are stratified, you can plant them indoors to give them a head start before moving them outdoors. Here’s how to plant the seeds:

1. Planting in Pots: Fill small pots with well-draining potting soil. Place each seed about 1 inch deep in the soil and cover it lightly. Water the soil until it’s evenly moist but not saturated.

2. Lighting and Temperature: Cherry seeds need warmth and light to germinate, so place the pots in a bright, warm spot, like a south-facing window. If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light to ensure the seedlings get enough light. Cherry seeds generally germinate within a few weeks to a few months, depending on the variety and growing conditions.

3. Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist during germination but avoid overwatering, as cherry seeds are sensitive to excess water. Check the moisture level regularly and adjust watering as needed.

Transplanting Seedlings Outdoors

Once the cherry seedlings have grown to about 6-12 inches tall, they’re ready to be transplanted outdoors. However, it’s essential to gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions before planting them in their permanent location.

1. Hardening Off: Start by placing the seedlings outside for a few hours each day, gradually increasing their exposure over a week or two. This process, known as hardening off, helps the young plants adjust to outdoor temperatures, sunlight, and wind, reducing transplant shock.

2. Selecting a Planting Site: Choose a sunny spot with well-draining soil for your cherry tree. Cherry trees thrive in full sun and need at least 6-8 hours of sunlight per day to produce strong growth and, eventually, fruit. The soil should be slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0-7.0), so test and amend the soil as needed.

3. Planting the Seedlings: Dig a hole that’s twice as wide as the root ball of the seedling and deep enough to cover the roots. Place the seedling in the hole, backfill with soil, and gently press down to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting to help the roots settle.

Caring for Young Cherry Trees

Once transplanted, cherry trees need consistent care to grow strong and healthy. Proper watering, mulching, and occasional pruning are essential for the health of your young cherry tree.

1. Watering: Young cherry trees need regular watering, especially during their first year. Water deeply once a week, or more frequently during hot or dry weather, to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as cherry trees don’t tolerate waterlogged soil.

2. Mulching: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pests.

3. Pruning: Pruning helps shape the tree and promotes strong growth. In the early years, prune the tree in late winter to remove any weak or crossing branches and encourage a balanced structure. Avoid heavy pruning, as cherry trees can be sensitive to large cuts.

Patience and Expectations

Growing a cherry tree from seed takes time, and it may be several years before the tree produces fruit. Most cherry trees grown from seed take about 7-10 years to bear fruit, and there’s a chance the fruit may differ from the parent cherry in flavor, size, and appearance due to cross-pollination. If your goal is to produce a particular variety of cherry, consider planting a grafted sapling from a reputable nursery.

However, even if your tree’s fruit is a surprise, growing a cherry tree from seed is an enriching experience that allows you to connect with every stage of the tree’s life. The process teaches patience and resilience, and whether or not your tree eventually bears cherries, it will provide shade, beauty, and a sense of accomplishment.

In Summary

Planting cherry seeds is a long but rewarding journey, from preparing the seeds to caring for the growing tree. By selecting the right cherries, stratifying the seeds, and following proper planting and care practices, you’ll give your cherry tree the best start possible. While growing a cherry tree from seed takes patience, the experience of nurturing a tree from its earliest stages is fulfilling and may lead to delicious rewards down the line. With the right care and dedication, your cherry tree could one day become a fruitful addition to your garden.