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Prunus cerasus
Sour Cherry
Prunus cerasus
Prunus cerasus, commonly known as the sour cherry or tart cherry, is a species of cherry tree. It's a deciduous tree, meaning it loses its leaves annually. It produces small, tart cherries that are primarily used for culinary purposes, particularly in jams, jellies, pies, and juices. The tree itself is relatively small to medium-sized, making it suitable for smaller gardens. The flowers are white or pale pink and appear in early spring.
CategoryDetails
Plant TypePerennial plant
Culinary UsageEdible plant
Medicinal UsageMedicinal Usage
Duration to maturity3 years to harvest
Estimated Plant Lifespan25 years lifespan
Sun Requirements6+ hours direct sunlight (Full Sun)
Pollination

Method: Insect pollination

Watering Requirements

Method: Top watering

Frequency: Water regularly, especially during dry periods, ensuring the soil is consistently moist but not waterlogged.

Notes: Avoid overhead watering, especially when the leaves are wet, to help reduce the risk of fungal disease.

Humidity Requirements

Level: Moderate

Cleaning RequirementsRegular pruning is recommended to remove dead or diseased branches and maintain the shape and health of the tree.
Temperature Range

Min: -20°C

Max: 35°C

Cultivars

Sir Don

Stella

Allium sativum
Garlic
Allium sativum
Garlic's strong scent can deter some common cherry pests, offering natural pest control.
Thymus vulgaris
common thyme
Thymus vulgaris
Thyme is a low-growing herb that can help suppress weeds and improve soil health around the base of the cherry tree. It also attracts beneficial insects.
Quercus robur
English oak
Quercus robur

A mature oak tree's extensive root system will compete for water and nutrients, potentially stunting the growth of the sour cherry tree.

Cherry fruit flies

These flies lay eggs in developing cherries, causing the fruit to rot and become unusable. Symptoms include small, brown spots on cherries and visible larvae inside the fruit.

Aphids

Aphids suck sap from leaves and stems, causing leaf curling, yellowing, and stunted growth. They excrete honeydew which attracts sooty mold.

Cherry leaf roll

This disease, caused by a fungus, causes leaves to curl and turn brown. The leaves may have reddish discoloration and leaf distortion

Steps:

    • Collect ripe seeds from mature cherries, remove the pulp and clean them thoroughly.
    • Stratify the seeds by keeping them in a moist medium (like peat moss) in a refrigerator at 3-4°C for at least 60-90 days.
    • Sow the seeds in pots filled with well-draining potting mix and place in a warm, sunny location.
    • Keep the soil consistently moist, until germination and beyond. Germination typically happens during spring.
    • Take hardwood cuttings in late winter from dormant branches.
    • Dip the cut ends in rooting hormone.
    • Plant cuttings in a mixture of peat moss and perlite and keep moist.

Neem oil

Effective against various pests, including aphids and other sap-sucking insects.

Kaolin clay

Acts as a physical barrier against pests and helps prevent fungal diseases.

Compost

Enhances soil health and provides essential nutrients for healthy growth.