Can You Plant Cherry Seeds from Store-Bought Cherries? A Deep Dive
The short answer: It is possible to plant cherry seeds from store-bought cherries, but the chances of success are significantly lower than using dedicated nursery stock, and the resulting tree will likely not produce fruit identical to the parent cherry. Germination can be unreliable, and the fruit quality may vary dramatically due to the nature of cherry tree genetics.
The Allure of Growing Your Own Cherry Tree
The idea of growing a cherry tree from a discarded seed plucked from a juicy store-bought cherry is understandably appealing. It’s a cost-effective and seemingly simple way to potentially add a beautiful and productive fruit tree to your garden. Imagine plucking fresh, sun-ripened cherries from your own backyard! This article explores the realities of this venture, highlighting both the potential rewards and the considerable challenges involved.
Understanding Cherry Tree Genetics
Unlike many plants that readily reproduce “true to type” from seed, cherry trees are frequently propagated using grafting. This is because most cultivated cherry varieties are hybrids. When a hybrid cherry tree produces seeds, the resulting offspring may not inherit all the desired traits of the parent tree. In fact, the genetic variability can be quite significant, leading to fruit that is smaller, less flavorful, or even inedible.
The Seed Germination Process: A Necessary Hurdle
Successfully planting a cherry seed from a store-bought fruit involves several key steps:
- Seed Extraction: Carefully remove the seed from the cherry fruit. Clean it thoroughly to remove any pulp.
- Stratification: This crucial step involves exposing the seed to a period of cold, moist conditions to break dormancy. This mimics winter conditions and is essential for germination. Typically, seeds are placed in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerated for 60-120 days.
- Planting: After stratification, plant the seed in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged.
- Germination: Patience is key! Germination can take several weeks or even months.
- Transplanting: Once the seedling is large enough, transplant it into a larger pot or directly into the ground in a suitable location.
The Importance of Cherry Variety
The variety of cherry plays a significant role in your chances of success. Some varieties are more likely to produce viable seeds, while others may be sterile or produce offspring with undesirable traits. Unfortunately, the variety is often not labeled on store-bought cherries. Popular varieties like Bing and Rainier are commonly hybrids.
Rootstock Considerations
Most commercial cherry trees are grafted onto rootstocks that provide desirable traits such as disease resistance, dwarfing, and improved fruit production. Growing a cherry tree from seed means you’re missing out on these benefits. The resulting tree may be more susceptible to diseases, grow larger than desired, and take longer to bear fruit.
Common Mistakes and Pitfalls
Several common mistakes can hinder your efforts to grow a cherry tree from seed:
- Ignoring Stratification: This is perhaps the most frequent reason for failure. Without proper stratification, the seed is unlikely to germinate.
- Overwatering: Soggy soil can lead to seed rot and prevent germination.
- Improper Planting Depth: Planting the seed too deep or too shallow can also hinder germination.
- Insufficient Sunlight: Seedlings need adequate sunlight to thrive.
- Expecting Identical Fruit: As previously mentioned, the fruit produced by a seed-grown cherry tree is unlikely to be identical to the parent fruit.
Alternatives to Seed Propagation
If your goal is to grow a specific variety of cherry, purchasing a grafted tree from a reputable nursery is the most reliable option. Grafted trees offer several advantages:
- Guaranteed Variety: You know exactly what type of cherry you’re getting.
- Faster Fruiting: Grafted trees typically fruit much sooner than seed-grown trees.
- Disease Resistance: The rootstock provides resistance to common cherry tree diseases.
- Dwarfing Options: Rootstocks can control the size of the tree, making it easier to manage.
Here’s a table summarizing the key differences:
| Feature | Seed-Grown Cherry Tree | Grafted Cherry Tree |
|---|---|---|
| Variety | Uncertain; may not be true to type | Known and guaranteed |
| Fruiting Time | Longer (5-7 years or more) | Shorter (2-4 years) |
| Disease Resistance | Potentially lower | Enhanced due to rootstock |
| Tree Size | Typically larger | Can be controlled by rootstock |
| Fruit Quality | Variable; may be undesirable | Expected to be true to variety |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the chances of successfully growing a cherry tree from a store-bought cherry seed?
The chances are relatively low compared to purchasing a grafted tree. While germination is possible, the resulting fruit quality is uncertain, and the tree may not thrive as well as a grafted one. Expect a success rate of under 20% from seed to mature fruiting tree.
How long does it take to grow a cherry tree from seed to fruiting?
It can take anywhere from 5 to 7 years, or even longer, for a seed-grown cherry tree to produce fruit. This is significantly longer than grafted trees, which typically fruit in 2-4 years.
Can I use any type of store-bought cherry seed?
While you can try any store-bought cherry seed, the chances of success vary depending on the variety. Hybrids are less likely to produce offspring that resemble the parent fruit.
Is stratification absolutely necessary for cherry seed germination?
Yes, stratification is crucial for most cherry seeds. It mimics winter conditions and breaks seed dormancy, allowing germination to occur.
What is the best way to stratify cherry seeds?
The recommended method involves placing the seeds in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag and refrigerating them at around 40°F (4°C) for 60-120 days.
What kind of soil is best for planting cherry seeds?
A well-draining potting mix is ideal. Avoid heavy clay soils that retain too much moisture. A mix of equal parts potting soil, perlite, and vermiculite works well.
How often should I water the cherry seed after planting?
Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Check the soil moisture regularly and water when the top inch feels dry.
How much sunlight does a cherry seedling need?
Cherry seedlings need at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day to thrive.
What are some common pests and diseases that affect cherry trees?
Common pests include aphids, cherry fruit flies, and spider mites. Diseases include brown rot, leaf spot, and verticillium wilt.
Can I fertilize a cherry seedling?
Yes, you can fertilize with a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength. Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage the seedling. Begin fertilizing only after the seedling has developed several true leaves.
Will the fruit from a seed-grown cherry tree taste the same as the cherry I got the seed from?
Probably not. As mentioned earlier, cherry trees are often hybrids, and seed-grown trees may not inherit all the desired traits of the parent tree. The fruit may taste different or be of lower quality.
Is it worth trying to grow a cherry tree from seed?
If you’re looking for a guaranteed variety and reliable fruit production, purchasing a grafted tree is the better option. However, if you’re interested in a fun experiment and don’t mind the uncertainty, growing a cherry tree from seed can be a rewarding experience. Just be aware of the challenges and manage your expectations accordingly.