If you’re a gardening enthusiast in Minnesota, you might be considering adding tart cherries to your landscape. Tart cherries are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. They are perfect for pies, jams, and even as a healthy snack. In this article, we’ll explore how to successfully grow tart cherries in Minnesota’s unique climate.
Tart cherries, often referred to as sour cherries, belong to the Prunus cerasus species. Unlike their sweet counterparts (Prunus avium), tart cherries have a higher acidity level which gives them their distinctive flavor. Popular varieties of tart cherries include Montmorency and Morello, both of which adapt well to Minnesota’s climate.
When it comes to growing tart cherries in Minnesota, selecting the right variety is crucial. The following varieties are well-suited for the region:
The Montmorency cherry is one of the most popular tart cherry varieties in the U.S. It is known for its bright red color and robust flavor. This variety is self-pollinating but will yield a better harvest if planted alongside other varieties.
The Balaton cherry is a newer variety that has gained popularity due to its sweetness and large fruit size. It is also known for its resistance to diseases common in cherry trees.
The North Star variety is a dwarf tart cherry tree that produces high-quality fruit. Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller gardens, and it also offers good cold hardiness.
Minnesota typically experiences cold winters and warm summers, making it ideal for growing tart cherries. These trees require a chilling period (below 45°F) during winter months to produce fruit effectively.
Tart cherry trees prefer well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Sandy loam or sandy soil works best for their growth. Ensure that your planting site has good drainage to avoid root rot.
Cherry trees thrive in full sun conditions. Aim for a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
The best time to plant tart cherry trees in Minnesota is in early spring (April) or late fall (October). This timing allows the trees to establish their roots before facing extreme temperatures.
Monitor your cherry tree’s moisture levels regularly, especially during dry spells in summer. Cherry trees typically need about an inch of water each week during their growing season.
Cherry trees benefit from balanced fertilizers high in phosphorus and potassium but low in nitrogen once they are established (after two years). You can apply fertilizer in early spring before new growth begins.
Pruning helps maintain tree shape while promoting airflow and sunlight penetration:
Tart cherries are susceptible to several pests and diseases such as aphids, cherry fruit flies, brown rot, and powdery mildew:
Tart cherries typically ripen in mid-summer (July). Here are some tips for harvesting:
While growing tart cherries can be rewarding, there are challenges unique to Minnesota gardeners:
Late frosts can damage blossoms; thus, select frost-resistant varieties and plant them in protected areas if possible.
Birds love tart cherries! Use netting or scare tactics like reflective tape to deter them from feasting on your crop before you can harvest it.
If space is an issue, consider dwarf varieties like North Star that fit well even in smaller gardens while still producing abundant fruit.
Growing tart cherries in Minnesota offers numerous benefits from delicious pies to health advantages due to their nutritional profile. By selecting suitable varieties, preparing your planting site adequately, providing continuous care through watering, fertilization, pruning, pest control, and harvesting at the right time, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying homegrown tart cherries each summer.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener or just starting out, cultivating these delectable fruits will not only enhance your garden’s appeal but also provide you with a bountiful harvest year after year! Embrace the joys of home gardening by planting tart cherry trees today!