Prunus cerasus
TAXONOMY
FamilyRosaceae
GenusPrunus
Zone4
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Prunus cerasus, commonly known as sour cherry or tart cherry, is a deciduous tree in the Rosaceae family. Native to Europe and southwest Asia, it is widely cultivated for its edible fruit. The tree prefers temperate climates and undergoes a dormancy period during winter. It is known for its bright red cherries, which are often used in cooking and baking.
ALSO KNOWN AS
Morello Cherry
Sour Cherry
Cerasus acida
Cerasus austera
Cerasus brevipes
Cerasus collina
Cerasus communis
Cerasus conglobata
Cerasus fruticosa
Cerasus hortensis
Cerasus longipes
Cerasus pendula
Cerasus peracida
Cerasus propera
Cerasus recta
Cerasus vulgaris
Druparia cerasus
Prunus acida
Prunus aestiva
Prunus austera
Prunus cerasa
Prunus cerasus var. austera
Prunus cerasus var. caproniana
Prunus pendula
Prunus recta
Prunus semperflorens
Prunus vulgaris
OVERVIEW
VPDCalculate
WaterMoist
SoilLoamy
LightDirect Bright (6 Hours)
Temperature15° C
Humidity60%
GDD1,800
Dormancy3 Months
pH6.5
Pressure1,013 mbar
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DETAILS
Care Instructions
Sour cherry trees require full sun and moderate temperatures to thrive. They should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods, but the soil should be allowed to dry out partially between waterings. The tree prefers moderate humidity and should be protected from extreme temperature fluctuations.Harvest
Prunus cerasus, commonly known as sour cherry, is typically harvested in late spring to early summer when the fruits are fully red and slightly soft to the touch. Harvesting is usually done by hand to avoid damaging the delicate fruits. It is important to pick the cherries with their stems attached to prolong their shelf life. The trees should be monitored regularly as the fruits ripen quickly and can be prone to bird predation. Proper handling and immediate cooling after harvest are essential to maintain fruit quality.Soil
Prunus cerasus prefers well-draining loamy soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The soil should be rich in organic matter to support the tree's nutrient needs. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.Fertilizer
A balanced fertilizer with an N-P-K ratio of 10-10-10 should be applied in early spring and again in late summer. This helps support the tree's growth and fruit production. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruiting.Repotting
Young sour cherry trees can be repotted every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth. Repotting should be done in early spring before new growth begins. Ensure the new pot has good drainage and use a well-draining soil mix.Propagation
Sour cherry trees can be propagated through seeds, cuttings, or grafting. Seeds should be stratified before planting, while cuttings should be taken in late spring or early summer. Grafting is often used to ensure the new tree retains the desirable characteristics of the parent tree.Pruning
Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape and health of the sour cherry tree. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove dead or diseased branches, and thin out crowded areas to improve air circulation and light penetration.Toxicity
Prunus cerasus is not toxic to pets or humans. However, the seeds and leaves contain cyanogenic compounds, which can release cyanide when ingested in large quantities. It is advisable to avoid consuming these parts of the plant.Additional
Sour cherry trees are relatively hardy and can tolerate a range of soil types and conditions. They are also resistant to many common pests and diseases, making them a good choice for home orchards. Regular monitoring and care will ensure a healthy and productive tree.REVOLUTIONIZE YOUR PLANT CARE
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