Wild Cherry / Bird Cherry / Sweet Cherry

Plant family

Rose family (Rosaceae)

Also known as

Gean

Season Overview

Details

Light requirement

Sunny

Water requirement

Dry

Soil

Medium (loamy)

Nutrient requirement

Low

Plant distance

300 cm

Row spacing

300 cm

Seeding depth

15 cm

Instructions

Description

Sweet cherries are mostly derived from the native wild bird cherry (Prunus avium). They are part of the rose family (Rosaceae). They can grow between 4 - 15 m tall. The white flowers are formed in April. Depending on the species and variety, the fruits are sweet, dark red and less acidic than sour cherries.

Growing tips

The sweet cherry likes an airy, full-sun location with rather loamy, deep, slightly calcareous soil. Avoid locations prone to late frost due to early flowering. Wet and acidic, sandy soils increase the risk of frost damage. Relatively large space requirement (4-6 m high and wide). Planting depth: as deep as in the pot. If necessary, secure with a support rod. Then firm the soil and water well. Water during dry periods. Mulch with compost and horn shavings in spring. Annual maintenance pruning: after the harvest, thin out the crown. Most varieties require a pollinator as they are not self-fertile. Harvest: when fruits have reached the color typical of the variety and can be easily detached, pick with stalk. Shading or painting the trunk white prevents frost damage to the bark.