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Cherry tree planting takes some planning. Cherry trees are very particular as to where they will grow and the best plan is to visit a local nursery to find out what species do well in your area. You will need to decide if you want the tree for the trees ornamental qualities or for the fruit. Cherry tree planting instructions vary somewhat according to the type chosen but there are a few details that are the same for all.
In general fruit bearing cherry trees require two things. They need a cold winter and at least one other cherry tree in the area. Although there are a couple of new sweet cherry varieties that are self pollinating most cherry trees are not. Having enough room for two or more cherry trees can be an issue as the trees grow up to 30 feet tall and do not do well planted near buildings or around shade trees. Cherry tree plantings should be at least 18 feet apart as well. Sometimes asking a neighbor to plant a cherry tree also is the best solution. It has been suggested that the hole be dug several months before the cherry tree planting is to take place to make sure the ground drains well. If rain water stays in the hole longer than 24 hours the site in unsuitable for cherry tree planting. Sunny areas with good air circulation and excellent soil are the criteria all cherry trees prefer.
Cherry trees are different than many other trees in several ways. They don’t like anything around their base. It is recommended that the ground in a 4 foot diameter be cleared of sod, weeds or any other greenery. They do not want mulching or very much fertilizer either. A small sprinkling of bone or blood meal is plenty for cherry tree planting. The soil pH factor of 6.2 to 6.8 is optimal and the addition of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi is the only soil additive suggested for cherry trees. Low areas where cool air pools should be avoided when considering the location for your cherry tree planting.
The planting hole should be 2 to 3 feet deep and twice as wide as the root wad. Well rotted manure should be worked into the bottom of the hole and into the soil taken out. Cherry tree roots should be teased out and spread out to encourage growth. Position the tree so the graft is more than 2 inches above the soil and back fill the hole in stages. Tamp the soil down several times as you shovel it in and water well when done to help settle the soil.
Cherry trees are available in ornamental and fruiting varieties that can add beauty to any landscape. Small yards are better suited to the ornamental and dwarf varieties but if space allows a standard cherry tree is a treasure. Cherry tree planting takes more forethought than the planting of other trees because they are very particular about the air, light, soil, and ground moisture.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about trees and shrubs and organic gardening at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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