El cerezo It is a tree that not only provides delicious fruits, but is also a true natural spectacle, especially during the spring when it blooms. In this article we will focus on the spring cherry tree care, covering everything from planting and watering to pruning and pollination, ensuring your cherry tree stays healthy and productive.
Characteristics of the cherry tree
The cherry tree is a tree belonging to the family of rosacea, and its scientific name is Prunus avium (sweet cherry). It is a large tree that can reach up to Meters 25 and live for over 100 years. Its flowers, which appear in early spring, are especially prized for their beauty, creating a blanket of white in the landscape.
Apart from their ornamental value, the cherries They are highly valued for their nutritional and medicinal properties. They are rich in vitamins A, C and K, and provide essential minerals such as iron, calcium and phosphorus, being a food low in fat and cholesterol. To learn more about their characteristics, you can read about the Characteristics and care of the Japanese cherry tree.
Basic cherry tree care in spring
- Irrigation: During the spring, the cherry tree needs a moderate wateringIt doesn't tolerate excess water, so it's essential to ensure the soil is well-drained and only water when the surface is dry.
- Pruning: La pruning It is essential for the growth and fruiting of cherry trees. Proper pruning in spring contributes to the production of healthy fruit and the removal of diseased branches.
- Subscriber: In spring it is necessary to fertilize the cherry tree with a balanced fertilizer, preferably organic. This will encourage healthy growth and optimal fruiting throughout the season.
- Pollination: It is important to encourage pollination, which is mainly carried out by the bees. Planting several varieties of cherry trees can improve fruit production, so consider learning more about the importance of planting more than one cherry tree.
irrigation and drainage
The cherry tree is a tree that does not require constant watering, in fact, suffers more from excess water than due to its lack. During spring, it is recommended to water the tree only when the soil is dry, avoiding puddles or the soil becoming muddy. A well-drained soil drained and aeration is crucial for their development. The soil mix must have a good balance between moisture retention and drainage. It is also recommended to add organic matter to improve the quality of the substrate.
The importance of pruning
La pruning It is a critical process in cherry tree maintenance, which should be performed twice a year: once in spring and once in fall. During spring pruning, it is important to remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to allow better air and light circulation within the tree. If you need more details on how to carry out this task, consult our guide on how to prune a cherry tree.
The goal of pruning is to promote healthy growth and aid fruit production. When pruning, it is recommended to leave hocks between 5 and 10 centimeters on the fruit-bearing branches, as these tend to dry out to the base. When making a cut on the central branch, it is recommended that this be approximately 20 cm longer than the other stems. This provides the necessary structure for the tree to grow healthy and strong.
proper fertilization
La fertilization Cherry tree care is a key aspect, especially in spring. Fertilizing organic Rich in nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium is ideal. Generally, it is recommended to apply the fertilizer in March or April, coinciding with the start of vegetative activity. If you want a more natural approach, consider using Japanese cherry bonsai to understand fertilization alternatives.
El compost It's an excellent alternative to chemical fertilizers, as it improves soil structure and provides long-term nutrients. It's important not to overdo the fertilizer, as too much nitrogen can harm the tree and affect its ability to produce fruit.
Pollination and fruit production
La pollination is a critical process in fruit production in cherry trees. This tree is generally pollinated by the bees, which transfer pollen from one flower to another. To improve pollination, it's advisable to plant several varieties of cherry trees, as some are self-sufficient, but many require the interaction of different varieties to bear fruit properly. We suggest you read about Prunus cerasus, to better understand the different types of cherry trees.
Cherry blossom typically occurs between March and April. During this time, the weather plays a key role: an average temperature of between 15 and 22 ° C and low rainfall are ideal for effective pollination. Flowering is not only a visual delight, but also prepares the tree for fruiting, which will begin approximately two months after blooming.
Additional care during spring
In addition to the care mentioned above, there are other factors to consider to keep your cherry tree in optimal condition:
- Pest Protection: Watch for common pests, such as aphids or mealybugs, and consider organic treatments if necessary.
- Disease Control: Keep an eye on the tree's leaves and bark for signs of diseases like gummosis, which can affect the tree's health.
- Sun exposure: Make sure the cherry tree receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight daily, which is essential for its development and fruit production.
With all this care, your cherry tree will not only bloom splendidly in spring, but will also produce healthy fruit that you can enjoy in summer. Every little helps maintain the health and beauty of your cherry tree.
