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How to Grow Sweet Cherry Tree

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Sweet Cherry Tree (Prunus avium)

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Supplies You'll Need

Large Garden Pot Fruit Tree Fertilizer Garden Netting Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Prunus avium
Category fruit_tree
Type Deciduous Tree
Days to Maturity 2190 days
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun (6-8 hours)

Water

Moderate (1 inch/week)

Spacing

30 ft apart

Height

10-30 ft

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Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Cherry seeds rarely grow true. Propagate by grafting for consistent fruit production.

Cold-stratify cherry pits for 10–12 weeks — germination can take 1–2 full growing seasons.

Sweet Cherry Tree Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Sweet Cherry Tree Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Sweet Cherry Tree? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Sweet Cherry Tree in early spring, 6 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

How long does Sweet Cherry Tree take to grow? +

Sweet Cherry Tree is a long-lived plant — expect the first real harvest about 6 years after planting, once established.

Should I start Sweet Cherry Tree indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Sweet Cherry Tree isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Sweet Cherry Tree need? +

Sweet Cherry Tree requires full sun (6-8 hours) to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Sweet Cherry Tree? +

Space Sweet Cherry Tree plants 360 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Sweet Cherry Tree need? +

Sweet Cherry Tree has moderate (1 inch/week) water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Sweet Cherry Tree? +

Sweet Cherry Tree is not typically propagated by seed. Cherry seeds rarely grow true. Propagate by grafting for consistent fruit production. Cold-stratify cherry pits for 10–12 weeks — germination can take 1–2 full growing seasons.

About Sweet Cherry Tree

Large, stunning tree with spectacular spring blossoms. Most sweet cherry varieties require a cross-pollinator. Nets are recommended as birds love the fruit. First harvest in 4-7 years.

Expect your Sweet Cherry Tree to be ready for harvest in approximately 2190 days from planting.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.