How to Grow Cherries in Maryland

Growing cherries can be a rewarding experience for any gardener, especially in Maryland, where the climate is conducive to producing sweet and succulent fruit. This article will guide you through the essential steps to successfully grow cherries in Maryland, covering everything from site selection to pest management.

Understanding Cherry Varieties

Before you begin planting, it’s crucial to understand the different types of cherry trees available. In Maryland, the two most popular varieties are sweet cherries (Prunus avium) and sour cherries (Prunus cerasus).

Sweet Cherries: These are typically eaten fresh and have a higher sugar content. Sweet cherry trees require cross-pollination, which means you’ll need at least two different varieties to produce fruit.

Sour Cherries: These are often used in pies, preserves, and other culinary applications. Sour cherries are self-pollinating, making them a great option for home gardeners who may not have space for multiple trees.

Selecting the Right Location

Choosing the right location for your cherry trees is crucial for their health and productivity. Here are some factors to consider:

Sunlight

Cherry trees thrive in full sun, requiring at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Look for a spot that receives ample sunlight throughout the day.

Soil Drainage

Cherries prefer well-drained soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. Avoid areas where water tends to pool or where the soil remains soggy after heavy rains.

Space Considerations

Cherry trees can grow quite large, so plan for adequate spacing. Standard sweet cherry trees can reach heights of 30 feet or more, while dwarf varieties may only reach 8–10 feet. Ensure you allow enough room for air circulation and growth.

Preparing the Soil

Before planting your cherry trees, it’s important to prepare the soil adequately:

1. Soil Testing: Conduct a soil test through your local extension office to determine pH levels and nutrient content.
2. Amending Soil: Based on your soil test results, you may need to amend your soil with compost or other organic materials to improve fertility and drainage.
3. Tilling: Loosen the soil by tilling it to about 12 inches deep. This helps aerate the roots and encourages healthy growth.

Planting Cherry Trees

Once you’ve prepared your site and selected your cherry tree varieties, it’s time to plant:

When to Plant

The best time to plant cherry trees in Maryland is during early spring or fall when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is more consistent.

How to Plant

1. Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is approximately twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep.
2. Placing the Tree: Position your tree in the center of the hole, ensuring that the graft union (swelling on the trunk) is above soil level.
3. Backfilling: Fill in around the root ball with native soil, gently tamping it down as you go to eliminate air pockets.
4. Watering: Immediately water deeply after planting to settle the soil around the roots.

Watering Requirements

Proper watering is essential for young cherry trees:

• Initial Watering: Newly planted trees require watering every week for at least six weeks after planting.
• Established Trees: Once established, cherry trees generally need about an inch of water per week during dry spells.
• Avoid Overwatering: Be careful not to overwater; soggy conditions can lead to root rot.

Fertilizing Cherry Trees

Fertilization is vital for healthy cherry trees:

• Newly Planted Trees: Do not fertilize immediately after planting; wait until the following spring.
• Established Trees: Apply a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) once in early spring before blossoming. Follow package directions for application rates.

Pruning Cherry Trees

Pruning is essential for maintaining tree health and promoting fruit production:

When to Prune

The best time to prune cherry trees is during late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

How to Prune

1. Remove Dead or Diseased Wood: Start by cutting away any dead or diseased branches.
2. Thinning: Thin out crowded branches to improve airflow and light penetration.
3. Shaping: Aim for an open center structure that allows sunlight to reach all parts of the tree.

Pest Management

Pest control is crucial for maintaining healthy cherry trees:

Common Pests

1. Cherry Fruit Fly: These pests lay eggs in cherries; use traps or insecticides labeled safe for use on fruit trees.
2. Aphids: Small insects that suck sap from leaves; they can be managed with insecticidal soap or natural predators like ladybugs.
3. Spider Mites: These thrive in dry conditions; regular watering can help prevent infestations.

Organic Pest Control Methods

Consider using organic methods such as neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or introducing beneficial insects like ladybugs into your garden.

Harvesting Cherries

Knowing when and how to harvest your cherries is key:

When to Harvest

• Sweet Cherries: They should be fully colored and firm when harvested, usually from late June through early July.
• Sour Cherries: These should be harvested when they have turned bright red and are slightly soft, typically available from late June into July.

How to Harvest

Gently twist each cherry off its stem or use pruning shears for larger branches—handle them with care to avoid bruising.

Potential Challenges

Growing cherries can come with challenges such as weather fluctuations, disease pressures, and wildlife interference:

1. Frost Damage: Late spring frosts can damage blossoms; consider using frost cloths if late frosts are predicted during blooming season.
2. Diseases: Watch for signs of diseases like brown rot or powdery mildew; practicing good sanitation by removing dropped fruit can help mitigate issues.

Conclusion

Growing cherries in Maryland can be both enjoyable and fruitful with proper planning, care, and attention. From selecting the right variety suited for your garden space to managing pests effectively, each step plays an essential role in ensuring a successful harvest. With patience and dedication, you’ll be rewarded with delicious cherries ready for fresh eating or culinary creations!