How fast does a cherry tree grow? | Home for the Harvest (2024)

Wondering how fast cherry trees grow? While they’re not the quickest fruit tree, they certainly aren’t slow either.

Sweet cherry trees grow about 1 foot each year in good conditions. Young trees purchased at the garden center typically take 3-4 years to start producing fruit. These trees were typically grafted onto 1-2 year-old rootstocks in the nursery, meaning the trees are more like 5 years old when they start fruiting. Cherry trees take about 7-8 years after planting to reach maturity (for a total age of 8-10 years old).

Read on to learn all about how fast cherry trees grow!

How fast does a cherry tree grow? | Home for the Harvest (1)

In this article, we'll cover hide

Tips for growing your cherry tree

Soil for good growth

Watering cherry trees

Sunlight for cherry tree health

Fertility of cherry trees

Pruning cherry trees

References

How fast does a cherry tree grow?

Whether you’re baking cherry squares or a cherry pie or putting them on top of a sundae, these little, round fruits are delicious, especially when they’re homegrown. But before you purchase a tree, you may have questions about the growth process, such as how long they take to grow. And here are some answers!

Cherry trees grown from seed grow about a foot a year and take 5-6 years to start producing fruit. The young put all their trees into vertical growth and canopy spread while they compete for sunlight with neighboring plants.

Most cherry trees sold in garden centers and planted in orchards are grafted trees. A branch from a known type of cherry tree is cut and grafted onto a different cherry root. This rootstock is usually 1-2 years old before it is grafted. Grafted cherry trees tend to fruit earlier than own-root trees, and can fruit only 2-3 years after grafting (meaning they fruit at a total age of 3-5 years).

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Cherry tree growth rates per year

Sweet cherry trees grow about 12 inches each year. They may grow only 8-10 inches in poor conditions and may grow more like 14 inches in particularly good conditions.

Sour cherry trees tend to grow a little more slowly than sweet cherries (but also don’t get as big). Sour cherries can be expected to grow more like 8-10 inches per year in average conditions.

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Time for cherry trees to start fruiting

Cherry trees don’t start to blossom and produce fruit until they are about five years old. Young trees are typically grafted onto 1-2 year old rootstocks before you purchase them. Once you buy them and get them into the ground, they’ll likely take 3-4 years to start blossoming and setting fruit.

The first few harvests will be sparse. You may even wish to take off the baby fruits on very young trees so that the tree can put all its energy into root growth rather than fruiting. It will take more like 7-8 years after planting for a full mature crop.

Cherry trees planted in orchards are propagated and trained carefully for fruit production. These trees can take as little as 2-3 years in the ground to start fruiting. That said, some orchardists remove the first crop after it sets to allow the trees to put more energy into root development when young. The first cherry crop is therefore harvested from orchards in the third growing season after planting.

“Cherry nurseries are mainly propagated by budding and grafting onto 1–2 year old seedling grown from seed. In order to grow from seed, pits should be planted in the fall (after first being chilled) and seedlings will emerge in the spring. A cherry tree will take three-four years to produce its first crop of fruit and seven years to attain full maturity.”

PennState University, PlantVillage

Tips for growing your cherry tree

Different varieties of cherry trees need different climates, soil, sun, and water levels to thrive. Therefore, make sure you read about the specifics of your kind to see the optimal results. Taking care of these fruit trees properly will mean you’ll see them growing and producing fruit when they should. Not to mention, your cherry tree will provide a larger harvest when you care for it correctly.

Soil for good growth

In general, a cherry tree prefers well-draining, nitrogen-rich, sandy soil. If your current soil is heavy and more clay-like, try adding compost or peat moss to make it more cherry tree friendly.

The recommended pH level, a measurement of how alkaline or acidic the soil is, depends on the type of cherries you grow. For example, sweet cherries prefer a pH level in the 6.3 to 7.2 range, whereas sour cherries thrive best in soil between 6.0 and 7.0.

Watering cherry trees

When you plant the tree, you’ll want to keep the soil moist, but not wet, at all times. Once you have an established cherry tree, it usually receives enough water when it rains. However, depending on where you live, you may need to water it once every seven to 10 days when you don’t receive adequate rainfall. Watering it for 20 minutes under the canopy should suffice.

Sunlight for cherry tree health

Cherry trees prefer full sun, meaning they get sun without obstructions for a long time. They generally desire six to eight hours of sun each day to grow.

Ensuring your cherry tree has full sunlight means your plant will establish better. It also affects fruit production and can keep funguses from severely attacking your plant.

Fertility of cherry trees

Most sweet cherry trees require pollination from a cherry tree of another variety to produce fruit. So, if you’re buying a Bing Cherry, it makes sense to also buy a Rainer Cherry at the same time. Otherwise, you may find yourself with a blooming 5-year old sweet cherry tree that won’t fruit because it’s all alone!

Check this publication Sweet Cherry Cultivars for the Fresh Market for a good overview of pollination partners. Certain varieties like Utah Giant are self-fruitful (but will fruit better with a pollination partner nearby).

While many sour cherry trees are self-fertile, meaning they transfer pollen on the same cherry blossom or from another one on that plant, they aren’t all that way. So make sure you research if your cherry tree is. Even if it’s self-fertile, you could benefit from having a second cherry tree.

Pruning cherry trees

Tree pruning consists of removing any dead or diseased branches. Part of pruning is also eliminating the branches that are taking nutrients from the rest of the plant and holding it back from growing to its full potential. In this case, the vertical-growing branches inhibit good air circulation. Ideally, you want to prune cherry trees in the growing season.

Cherry trees can start producing fruit as early as their third year, depending on the type. However, it takes proper care if you want to see your cherries producing fruit when they should.

“On their own roots, cherry trees can take 5 to 6 years or more to produce fruit. Pruning can modify tree vigor and increase branch production. However, pruning—and especially dormant heading cuts—tends to delay fruit production in young trees by stimulating vegetative growth. Other factors, such as deep, productive soils or over-fertilization, increase tree vigor and delay the onset of floral initiation.”

Cherry Training Systems, Oregon State University
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Resources

  • How to grow cherries
  • When to plant a cherry tree
  • Types of cherry trees
  • Where to plant a cherry tree
  • How big do cherry trees get?

References

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How fast does a cherry tree grow? | Home for the Harvest (2024)

FAQs

How quickly does a cherry tree grow? ›

Wild cherry is quick growing, reaching 8m x 5m in 10 years, 14m x 7m in 20 years and 20m x 10m when full grown. Young trees tend to be quite narrow and upright, but mature trees become wide and spreading.

How long does it take to harvest cherry? ›

Years to Harvest

Standard sweet cherries, usually enjoyed fresh, produce fruit four to seven years after being transplanted into the garden. Dwarf varieties may produce fruit as early as two years after transplanting.

How big does a cherry tree grow? ›

Depending on the rootstock, they grow to a mature height between 3m / 10ft to 8m / 25ft so read the "rootstock" section below carefully to choose the correct sized tree for your garden.

Why was the cherry tree so special answer? ›

Grandfather replied that the tree was special because they planted it themselves. At the end, Rakesh wondered what it felt like a God. He was surprised by how a small seed he planted had grown into a beautiful tree that provided fruit, shade , shelter to everyone.

What fruit tree grows the fastest? ›

Easy-going, fast-growing fruit trees for the beginner
  • Peach Trees. Peach trees will grow in most of the U.S. and will begin bearing fruit in about two years. ...
  • Apple Trees. ...
  • Lemon Trees. ...
  • Apricot Trees. ...
  • Fig Trees.
26 Oct 2022

How many times can you harvest a cherry tree? ›

During harvesting season, you'll be able to pick fresh cherries at least every two days.

Can dogs eat cherries? ›

Use Extreme Caution With Feeding Dogs Cherries

The main danger of cherries is that their pits, stems, and leaves contain cyanide, which is poisonous and potentially lethal if consumed in high enough quantities. Cherry pits can also get lodged in a dog's digestive tract and cause intestinal blockages.

How long can a cherry tree live? ›

Across all varieties cherry trees tend to have a short lifespan, typically around 15-30 years.

Where do cherry trees grow best? ›

Cherry trees thrive in a location that gets full sun and has a well-drained, fertile soil. “Full sun” is defined as at least 6 to 8 hours of sun each day. Sunlight is critical to fruit production and quality, and also helps keep fungal issues from getting a foothold.

Why did Japan gift cherry trees? ›

The tradition of celebrating the blooming of cherry trees in Japan is centuries old. The planting of cherry trees in Washington DC originated in 1912 as a gift of friendship to the People of the United States from the People of Japan. In Japan, the flowering cherry tree, or "Sakura," is an important flowering plant.

What happened in the story the cherry tree? ›

McRae, 1867. The cherry tree myth is the most well-known and longest enduring legend about George Washington. In the original story, when Washington was six years old he received a hatchet as a gift and damaged his father's cherry tree. When his father discovered what he had done, he became angry and confronted him.

Who was the cherry trees first visitor answer? ›

He wanted it to know that he was there. One day he found a bright green praying mantis perched on a branch, peering at him with bulging eyes. Rakesh let it remain there; it was the cherry tree's first visitor.

Which fruit takes 2 years to grow? ›

Apricot. Even a single tree is enough to grow in the garden because it will produce self-pollinated fruit. This tree grows faster, but it takes 2 years to start bearing fruit. The sweetness of apricots tastes best when fresh.

Do cherry fruit trees grow fast? ›

Cherry trees are some of the fastest-growing fruit trees. They average 1 to 2 feet a year depending on the variety. The trees should start bearing fruits two years after planting. Within 4 to 5 years, the trees are mature and will bear full crops.

Should you prune a cherry tree every year? ›

The only pruning necessary at that time would be to remove any broken or damaged branches and/or roots. Plan to prune your cherry trees every year during their dormant season.

Does a cherry tree need a lot of water? ›

Cherry Trees enjoy moist soil. They need an inch of water every two weeks while they're young. It may be a good idea to keep up with the rainfall with weather reports, or a rain gauge to see how much rainwater your trees are getting. During times of drought, your trees may need a little extra water.

How many cherries do you get from one tree? ›

On average, there are about 7,000 cherries in a tart tree and 250 in cherry pie, which means a tree produces about 28 cherry pies. There are about 100 whole cherries in an 8-ounce class of cherry juice.

How long does it take to grow a cherry tree from a seed? ›

You may wonder how long it takes to grow a cherry tree from a seed. Expect cherry trees to start bearing fruit within seven to 10 years. You can shorten the time to fruiting if you graft a cherry tree seedling onto existing cherry tree stock.

What month is cherry picking? ›

The short California cherry season begins in mid-May and typically lasts into early June. Among major commercially-grown fruits, cherries are known to be the last trees to bloom and the first to harvest each year.

Can dogs eat bananas? ›

Yes, dogs can eat bananas. In moderation, bananas are a great low-calorie treat for dogs. They're high in potassium, vitamins, biotin, fiber, and copper.

Can dog eat grapes? ›

Do not share any food that may contain grapes or raisins with your dog, and especially do not use grapes as treats for your dog. While one grape may not cause a problem for most dogs, it is a good idea to avoid this habit and risk a potential poisoning.

Can dogs eat Cheerios? ›

Cheerios are low in sugar, and dogs will like their taste and crunch. They won't harm your dog, but they don't provide much benefit either. Cheerios are made from mostly whole-grain oats, which provide no essential component of your pet's diet.

How old is the oldest cherry tree? ›

In Yamanashi's Hokuto City, there is a legendary cherry blossom tree known as the “Jindai-Zakura.” Although the exact age of this large tree (10.3 meters) is yet to be determined, its estimated to be between 1,800 to 2,000 years old—making it the oldest cherry blossom tree in Japan and perhaps the world.

Does a cherry tree need a male and female? ›

All cherry trees are either all-male or all-female so it's not necessary to have both sexes next to each other. You can also simply plant an all-female tree for the first year and then an all-male tree the following year for pollination.

What season do cherries grow? ›

Among commercially-grown fruits, it's common knowledge that cherries are the last trees to bloom and the first to harvest. So for most cherry crops in the area, harvest season starts from mid-April to late July.

What weather do cherries grow best in? ›

Cherries are grown in all areas of the world where winter temperatures are not too severe and where summer temperatures are moderate. They require winter cold in order to blossom in spring. The trees bloom quite early in the spring, just after peaches and earlier than apples.

What is the best cherry to grow? ›

1] SUNBURST My choice as the best garden Cherry tree, Sunburst has it all. Prolific, reliable, outstanding flavour and quality, the deepest red-black fruits ripening en masse in early July. Suits all growing applications. Outstanding.

What is a weeping cherry tree? ›

Weeping cherry trees are a variety of ornamental cherry tree with pendulous “weeping” branches that produce clusters of white and pink flowers. While there are dozens of weeping cherry trees (belonging to the genus prunus), common varieties include Higan, Shidare Yoshino and Snow Fountain.

What do cherry blossoms smell like? ›

What do cherry blossoms smell like? Cherry blossoms have a smell, but it's very faint and subtle. The scent features light notes of lilac, rose, and magnolia with a powdery vanilla note and almond-like aromas. The aroma isn't overly sweet, fruity, or floral.

Are cherry blossoms Chinese or Japanese? ›

Cherry blossom originated in the Himalayas in China's territory and found its way to Japan in the Tang Dynasty (618-907), added He. The cultivation of cherry blossom in China dates back to the Qin (221-206 BC) and Han (206 BC - 220 AD) dynasties more than 2,000 years ago when the flower was bred in royal gardens.

Which type of poem is cherry tree? ›

"Cherry Tree"

The poem talks about nature; thus it falls under the category of Nature poetry. The tone is that of optimism – the poet focuses on the growing aspect of nature; how the cherry plant struggles to survive.

How did the poem the cherry tree end? ›

Beginning: The poem begins with the planting of a cherry seed by the poet. “Eight years have passed Since I placed my cherry seed in the grass.” End: The poem ends on a happy note with the tree in full bloom and the poet being glad about it. “That small, the cherry, grown by me.”

What is the message of cherry tree poem? ›

The cherry tree in the poem is symbolic of human life. It highlights the hardships that one has to face and overcome in order to live life to the fullest. It sends out a loud and clear message of „survival of the fittest‟.

Who is the hero of the story the Cherry Tree answer? ›

The hero, Sir Cleges, is generous, perhaps too generous. He celebrates Christmas in such style every year, that eventually he falls into poverty.

Where was cherry first found? ›

Where did cherries originate? Sweet cherries originated in Asia Minor in the fertile areas between the Black and Caspian seas and were likely brought to Europe by birds. The Greeks were the first to cultivate cherries and the Romans continued to increase and expand production.

Who is the poet of cherry tree? ›

The Cherry Trees by Edward Thomas | Poetry Foundation.

How tall is a 3 year old cherry tree? ›

3-4 Year Old (Approx. 3-3.5 Ft) Barbados Cherry Tree. Barbados cherries are a sweet-tart fruit, which goes excellently with making jams, jellies, pies, and many more delicious treats.

Can you plant just 1 cherry tree? ›

Only one sour cherry tree needs to be planted for pollination and fruit set. Many sweet cherry varieties cannot produce fruit from their own pollen and are considered self-unfruitful. These plants require cross-pollination for fruit set.

Why are cherry trees so hard to grow? ›

Cherry trees are very susceptible to root rot, so the soil needs to drain well. They also require about eight hours of sunlight daily, so you cannot plant them where they will grow in the shade of other trees. Any cherry tree care manual will tell you that sour cherry trees are self-pollinators.

How can I make my cherry tree grow faster? ›

I've seen trees double in size over the source of a year when they are well-tended. If your fruit trees are small and gnarled and scrubby, it's time to pay some attention to them. If you want to grow fruit trees fast, give them mulch, fertilizer and water and don't let the grass fight with them for resources.

What is the lifespan of a cherry tree? ›

Across all varieties cherry trees tend to have a short lifespan, typically around 15-30 years.

What is the easiest cherry tree to grow? ›

Both sweet and sour cherry trees are easy to grow and both fruits have a wide variety of uses. Sweet cherries are used for raw eating and you'll need at least 2-3 trees for pollination. There is a dwarf sweet cherry tree that is self-pollinating that is new to most markets as well.

At what age does a cherry tree produce fruit? ›

Cherry trees generally start bearing fruit in their fourth year; dwarf trees bear fruit a year earlier. One mature, standard-size tart or sweet cherry tree will produce 30 to 50 quarts of cherries each year; a dwarf tree, about 10 to 15 quarts.

Do cherry trees need a lot of water? ›

Cherry Trees enjoy moist soil. They need an inch of water every two weeks while they're young. It may be a good idea to keep up with the rainfall with weather reports, or a rain gauge to see how much rainwater your trees are getting. During times of drought, your trees may need a little extra water.

Are cherry trees male or female? ›

All cherry trees are either all-male or all-female so it's not necessary to have both sexes next to each other. You can also simply plant an all-female tree for the first year and then an all-male tree the following year for pollination.

What do you feed cherry trees? ›

Pears (established), cherries, plums, gages, damsons and peaches
  1. These fruits need a balanced general fertiliser in early spring. ...
  2. Organic growers can use similar amounts of dried poultry manure pellets with some organic potassium every three years.

What makes a tree grow faster? ›

By mulching trees and giving them supplemental water when needed, you will be giving them a big advantage, creating healthier trees that grow faster.

How long does it take a cherry tree to grow from seed? ›

You may wonder how long it takes to grow a cherry tree from a seed. Expect cherry trees to start bearing fruit within seven to 10 years.

Which cherry tree is best? ›

1] SUNBURST My choice as the best garden Cherry tree, Sunburst has it all. Prolific, reliable, outstanding flavour and quality, the deepest red-black fruits ripening en masse in early July. Suits all growing applications. Outstanding.

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