El dwarf cherry tree It is a fruit tree that you can enjoy at home even if your garden is not very large, because it is a variety that grows well in a pot. If you want your tree to be healthy, pay attention to this article.
We are going to get to know this variety in more depth and examine in detail the care you must give it to enjoy your cherrybaby tree for a long time.
This is what a dwarf cherry tree looks like
The cherry tree is a tree of which we can find different varieties. One of the most popular is the japanese cherry, which stands out for its beauty and its large size, being able to reach up to seven meters in height. But also within the cherry family we find smaller trees, like this one we are talking about.
El Prunus Avium or dwarf cherry tree is native to europe, although it can also be found in western Asia.
Among its characteristics we can highlight the following:
- Compact size. Its growth is quite compact, between one and four meters. This makes it ideal for small gardens and also for growing in pots.
- Leaves and flowers. Its shiny green leaves are lanceolate and toothed on the edges. Its flowering is characterized by small white flowers that are grouped in clusters.
- Fruit. The cherries of this tree are small, about 5 to 8 mm in diameter, and their color varies from dark red to almost black as they ripen. They are cherries with a rather acidic flavor, but they give very good results when making jams, compotes and even liqueurs.
- Ornamental value. Despite being a fruit tree, in most cases it is grown for purely ornamental use.
- Resistance. This variety is very resistant, it withstands dry periods well, and does not suffer too much in cold climates, although it also grows well in more temperate climates.
In addition to this dwarf European cherry tree, there are other varieties such as Japanese dwarf cherry or Prunus Incisa. This one is even smaller, it usually does not exceed two meters high. Its flowers can be pink or white and, otherwise, it shares many of the characteristics of its first European.
How to care for a dwarf cherry tree
One of the great advantages of this tree is that it is quite easy to care for, so it won't give you too much work. With minimal and essential care, it will be truly beautiful.
Location
This variety loves to receive direct sunlight, so try to plant it in a place where it receives a minimum of six hours of light each day. This promotes healthy growth and more abundant flowering.
In regions where temperatures are very high during the summer, it would be advisable to ensure that the tree will also receive some shade, especially during the hours of greatest solar intensity.
Land
Like many other trees, the dwarf cherry tree does not do well with waterlogging, because excess moisture can rot its roots. Needs a soil that drains well, and better if it is slightly acidic, with a pH between 6 and 6.5.
If the soil or substrate you have is too dense, you can improve its drainage capacity. adding organic matter before planting. Coconut fiber is one of the best alternatives, because it is cheap and easy to find.
Irrigation
When the tree is young it needs more water than once it is established. During the first year, water regularly. (without waterlogging) to get the roots to settle. Afterwards, you can space out the watering and only do it when the soil is dry to about five or seven centimeters deep.
Excessive watering increases the risk of the tree suffering from fungal infections, so it's better not to risk it. Don't add too much water and make sure the soil drains well.
Pruning
Pruning the dwarf cherry tree is essential to give it shape and to make it grow stronger and healthier. The ideal time to cut dead, diseased, or damaged branches is in the winter, which is when the tree is dormant.
You can take advantage of the fact that you are going to prune to shape the tree. This will allow you to create a much denser and more compact glass.
Fertilization
Early spring is when the dwarf cherry tree develops its flowers and displays all its beauty. The ideal is to provide a balanced slow release fertilizer (or organic fertilizer) just before flowering begins.
This extra nutrient will cause the tree to have more flowers and its fruit load to be greater. But don't overuse the fertilizer, or you could end up damaging the roots.
Plagues and diseases
The dwarf European cherry tree is vulnerable to fungal diseases such as Monilia, which causes flowers and fruits to rot. The best thing to do in these cases is to apply a good prevention (avoiding excessive watering) and act as soon as possible if you detect that there is a problem.
As far as pests are concerned, aphids and mites are the most common in this variety. It is advisable to regularly check the tree to detect if the accumulation of insects is excessive.
mulching
A simple way to get the tree in perfect condition is to place a layer of mulch about five to seven centimeters thick around the base, without directly touching the trunk.
Mulch helps conserve moisture in the soil and keeps roots cool during the summer. In addition, it reduces the presence of weeds around the tree that compete with it for nutrients.
winter protection
If you are in a region where winters are especially cold, it is a good idea to protect the tree during this time of year. It would be enough cover the cup with a cloth or blanket, but only in the coldest times.
You can also wrap the trunk with some insulating material. Especially if it is a young tree.
The dwarf cherry tree is a perfect variety to plant in the garden or to grow in a pot. Its fruits are not too interesting, but it has high ornamental value. Did you know this variety?