How to Care for Cherry Trees – Expert Tips on Growing Cherries

Cherry Tree Planting and Care – Common Questions Answered

One of the unmistakable signs that spring has arrived is the burst of blossoms on cherry tree branches. Cherry trees are often the first of the stone fruits to bloom each year, and they typically bear fruit earlier than others. This is why the arrival of fresh cherries at local markets often signals the start of summer.

These seasonal milestones wouldn’t happen without proper care. Whether you’re growing tart cherries for baking or sweet varieties for eating, success depends on choosing the right tree, planting it properly, and following essential maintenance routines. Patience is also key, as fruit production can take several years.

To help local homeowners better understand how to grow and care for cherry trees, the certified arborists at DreamWorks Tree Services provide answers to the most common questions:

How tall does a cherry tree grow?

• Depending on the species, cherry trees can reach up to 35 feet in height.
• Sweet cherry trees typically grow taller than tart cherry varieties.

How fast does a cherry tree grow?

• Sweet cherry trees need about 5–7 years to bear fruit.
• Tart cherry trees are faster, typically fruiting within 3–5 years.

Are there other major differences between sweet and tart cherry trees?

• Sweet cherry trees do not self-pollinate, so you’ll need at least two.
• Tart cherry trees are self-pollinating, making them ideal for smaller spaces.

What is the recommended spacing when planting multiple cherry trees?

• Give each tree about 18–20 feet of space to allow for canopy spread and airflow.

What time of year do cherry trees produce fruit?

• They blossom in early spring, with fruit maturing in late spring to early summer.

Do cherry trees bear fruit every year?

• Yes—if they receive proper care, water, and pollination.

How long does a cherry tree live?

• With good maintenance, cherry trees live 16–20 years, though pests and diseases can shorten that lifespan.

How does the Southern Ontario climate affect cherry tree growth?

• The cold winters help trees stay dormant and prevent premature bud break.
• Spring frosts can be a risk, so location and timing matter.

What is the best soil for cherry trees?

• Cherry trees thrive in well-drained, loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 6.5.
• Soil should be rich in organic matter and not prone to waterlogging, which can rot roots.

How much sun does a cherry tree need?

• Cherry trees require full sun exposure, ideally 6–8 hours per day.
• Shaded trees produce fewer blossoms and less fruit.

When is the best time to prune cherry trees?

• Mid-summer (July–August) is ideal, when trees are less vulnerable to bacterial infections.
• Avoid winter pruning, as cuts heal slowly and may invite disease.

How to fertilize cherry trees?

• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring, just before bud break.
• Over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage and reduced fruit, so follow package directions carefully.

How to protect cherry trees from pests and diseases?

• Common threats include:
  • Aphids
  • Cherry fruit flies
  • Black knot fungus
  • Cankers
• Protect trees by:
  • Cleaning pruning tools
  • Regularly inspecting leaves and branches
  • Using natural pest deterrents like neem oil
  • Removing diseased limbs promptly
• For infestations, consult your local tree care experts.

Cherry Tree Growth Stages: What to Expect Year by Year

Knowing what to expect at each stage of growth helps you plan and care for your cherry trees long term:

• Years 1–2: Root Establishment
  Focus on watering, soil health, and preventing weed competition.
• Years 3–5: First Blossoms and Fruit (Tart Cherries)
  Trees begin producing small harvests. Monitor for pests and fertilize properly.
• Years 5–7: Fruit-Bearing Years (Sweet Cherries)
  Fruit output increases. Begin annual pruning and mulching routines.
• Year 8 and Beyond: Full Maturity
  Trees produce consistent yields. Maintenance shifts to canopy control, pest prevention, and rejuvenation pruning.

Cherry trees may take time to mature, but with consistent care, they become productive and visually stunning centrepieces in your yard.

How to Grow a Cherry Tree from Seed (and When Not To)

If you’re interested in growing cherry trees from seed, here’s how:

1. Clean fresh cherry pits and scrub off remaining fruit.
2. Dry for 3–5 days.
3. Refrigerate in a sealed container for about 10 weeks (cold stratification).
4. Plant indoors at room temperature: 2–3 seeds per pot.
5. Transplant outdoors after the last frost, spacing trees 20 feet apart.

Growing from seed is rewarding but slow. Trees may take 7+ years to bear fruit, and there’s no guarantee the fruit will match the parent tree.

If speed and consistency are priorities, we recommend starting with nursery-grown saplings, which are ideal for fruit production and easier to establish.

Seasonal Cherry Tree Maintenance Tips for Canadian Climates

Caring for cherry trees in Southern Ontario’s climate means adjusting your routine by season:

Spring:

• Apply fertilizer early.
• Inspect for bud damage from frost.
• Begin pest monitoring.

Summer:

• Water during dry spells (1–2 inches per week).
• Prune in mid-summer to maintain shape and improve airflow.

Fall:

• Remove fallen leaves and fruit to reduce disease risk.
• Apply mulch to insulate roots before winter.

Winter:

• Protect young trees by wrapping trunks to prevent frost cracks.
• Avoid pruning; trees are dormant and more vulnerable.

Preventing Pests and Common Cherry Tree Problems

Healthy cherry trees are less prone to infestations, but even the best-maintained trees can face issues. Here are the most common problems:

Pests:

• Aphids: cause leaf curling and stunt growth.
• Cherry fruit flies: larvae spoil fruit.
• Spider mites: cause leaf discoloration.

Diseases:

• Black knot fungus: causes dark growths on branches.
• Canker: sunken bark lesions that can kill limbs.
• Powdery mildew: white coating on leaves.

Prevention Tips:

• Sanitize pruning tools between cuts.
• Remove infected branches immediately.
• Use neem oil or horticultural soap as natural deterrents.
• Schedule annual inspections with an arborist if symptoms persist.

Best Time of Year to Plant a Cherry Tree

The best times to plant cherry trees in Ontario are:

• Early spring (once the ground is workable but before budding)
• Late fall (after leaf drop but before the ground freezes)

Avoid summer planting—heat and drought stress can hinder root establishment.

Explore our Tree Planting Services for help choosing the best timing and location.

Expert Cherry Tree Planting and Care Services in the GTA

While many homeowners enjoy the challenge of growing cherry trees, long-term success requires time, effort, and consistent seasonal care. If you’re short on time or want professional guidance, we can help.

DreamWorks Tree Services offers expert cherry tree planting, pruning, and seasonal maintenance in the Greater Toronto Area. Our arborists help with:

• Selecting the best planting sites
• Proper tree spacing and soil preparation
• Seasonal pruning to encourage fruit production
• Diagnosing health issues and storm-related damage

Whether you’re starting from seed or buying nursery trees, our team can help with everything from planting to seasonal pruning.

Call 647-924-2627 or contact us online to request a free property assessment and no-obligation quote.