Can You Grow Cherry Trees from Store-Bought Cherries?
It is theoretically possible to grow cherry trees from store-bought cherries, but the chances of success are significantly low and the resulting tree is unlikely to produce fruit identical to the parent cherry.
The Allure and Reality of Seed Propagation
The idea of cultivating a fruit tree from the seed of a store-bought cherry holds a certain romantic appeal. Imagine plucking a perfectly ripe cherry from your own tree, grown from humble beginnings. However, the reality of propagating cherry trees from seed is far more complex than simply planting a pit. The challenges stem from the inherent genetics of cherry trees, the treatment of commercially grown fruit, and the patience required for successful germination and growth.
Understanding Cherry Tree Genetics
Most commercially grown cherry trees are not true-to-seed. This means that the tree grown from the seed will not reliably produce fruit that is identical to the cherry you ate. This is because most commercial cherry varieties are hybrids, created by crossing two different cherry varieties to achieve desirable traits such as size, sweetness, or disease resistance. The seeds from these hybrid fruits carry a mix of genetic information, resulting in offspring with unpredictable characteristics. Furthermore, many cherry varieties require pollination from a different cherry tree to produce fruit. If you are successful in growing a tree from seed, it may not be self-pollinating, requiring another tree nearby for fruit production.
The Journey from Seed to Sapling
Growing a cherry tree from seed is a multi-step process that requires patience and attention to detail.
- Seed Extraction and Cleaning: Carefully remove the pit from the cherry flesh. Clean the pit thoroughly to remove any remaining pulp, as this can attract mold and hinder germination.
- Stratification (Cold Treatment): Cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. This mimics the natural winter conditions that the seeds would experience in the wild. To stratify, place the cleaned pits in a container filled with moist peat moss or sand. Seal the container in a plastic bag and refrigerate for approximately 90-120 days. Regularly check the moisture level and ensure the pits do not dry out or become moldy.
- Planting: After stratification, plant the pits in small pots filled with well-draining potting mix. Plant the pits about 1 inch deep and water gently.
- Germination and Seedling Care: Place the pots in a warm, sunny location. Germination can take several weeks or even months. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Once the seedlings emerge, provide them with adequate light and air circulation to prevent fungal diseases.
- Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are large enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots or directly into the ground, depending on your climate and growing conditions.
Common Pitfalls and Mistakes
Several common mistakes can derail the process of growing cherry trees from store-bought cherries.
- Ignoring Stratification: This is arguably the most frequent error. Without proper cold stratification, the seeds will likely not germinate.
- Overwatering or Underwatering: Maintaining the correct moisture level is crucial. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the seeds to dry out and die.
- Using Inferior Soil: The soil must be well-draining and provide adequate nutrients for the seedlings.
- Lack of Patience: Growing cherry trees from seed takes time and patience. Do not expect to see results overnight.
- Ignoring the Source: Seeds from irradiated or otherwise treated cherries may be inviable and will not germinate.
Alternative Propagation Methods
While growing cherry trees from seed is possible, it is generally not the preferred method for commercial growers or home gardeners. Other propagation methods, such as grafting and budding, offer several advantages:
- True-to-Type Reproduction: Grafting and budding ensure that the resulting tree will produce fruit identical to the parent tree.
- Faster Fruit Production: Grafted or budded trees typically begin producing fruit much sooner than trees grown from seed.
- Disease Resistance: Grafting onto a disease-resistant rootstock can improve the overall health and vigor of the tree.
| Propagation Method | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Seed | Easy and inexpensive | Unpredictable fruit quality, slow to fruit |
| Grafting | True-to-type, faster fruit production, disease resistance | Requires skill and specialized equipment |
| Budding | True-to-type, faster fruit production, disease resistance | Requires skill and specialized equipment |
The Bottom Line: A Fun Experiment, Not a Reliable Orchard
While it is possible to grow a cherry tree from a store-bought cherry pit, it’s best approached as a fun experiment rather than a reliable method for establishing an orchard. The unpredictable nature of the resulting fruit and the time required for the tree to mature make it a less practical option than purchasing a grafted cherry tree from a reputable nursery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Will the cherry tree grown from a store-bought cherry produce the same kind of cherries?
No, it is highly unlikely that the tree will produce the same type of cherries. Most commercially grown cherries are hybrids, and the seeds will produce offspring with unpredictable traits. The fruit may be smaller, less sweet, or even of a different color.
2. How long does it take for a cherry tree grown from seed to produce fruit?
Cherry trees grown from seed typically take 5-10 years to begin producing fruit. This is significantly longer than grafted trees, which can begin bearing fruit in as little as 3-4 years. The exact timeframe depends on the variety and growing conditions.
3. What is cold stratification, and why is it necessary?
Cold stratification is a process that mimics the natural winter conditions that cherry seeds experience. It breaks dormancy and allows the seed to germinate properly. Without stratification, the seed will likely remain dormant and not sprout.
4. What are the ideal soil conditions for growing cherry trees?
Cherry trees prefer well-draining soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0. Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter to improve drainage. Good soil health is essential for vigorous growth.
5. How much sunlight do cherry trees need?
Cherry trees need at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Choose a planting location that receives ample sunlight throughout the growing season. Insufficient sunlight can lead to poor fruit production.
6. What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees?
Common pests include aphids, cherry fruit flies, and borers. Common diseases include brown rot, leaf spot, and verticillium wilt. Regular monitoring and preventative measures are crucial for maintaining tree health.
7. Can I grow a cherry tree indoors?
While it is possible to start a cherry tree indoors, it is not a long-term solution. Cherry trees require a dormant period and significant sunlight to thrive. Eventually, the tree will need to be transplanted outdoors. Indoor growing is primarily for starting the germination process.
8. What is the best time of year to plant a cherry tree?
The best time to plant a cherry tree is in the early spring or late fall, when the tree is dormant. Avoid planting during the heat of summer or when the ground is frozen.
9. Do cherry trees need to be pruned?
Yes, pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, health, and productivity of cherry trees. Prune in the late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
10. Are there self-pollinating cherry varieties?
Yes, there are self-pollinating cherry varieties, such as Stella and Lapins. However, even self-pollinating varieties often benefit from cross-pollination with another cherry tree. Check with your local nursery for recommendations.
11. How can I prevent birds from eating my cherries?
Protecting your cherries from birds can be challenging. Netting is the most effective method. You can also use bird repellents or scare devices. Early intervention is key to minimizing losses.
12. Is it legal to grow a cherry tree from a store-bought cherry pit?
Generally, yes. Unless the cherries are from a patented variety and you are propagating them for commercial purposes, there are usually no legal restrictions on growing a cherry tree from a seed. However, check local regulations regarding invasive species.