How to Grow Montmorency Cherry - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Montmorency cherry is a popular fruit crop in many countries. The plant is a deciduous shrub or small tree, typically reaching a height of 5–12 m (16–39 ft). The leaves are oval-shaped, 2–7 cm (0.8–2.8 in) long and 1.5–4 cm (0.6–1.6 in) wide, with a serrated margin. The flowers are white or pale pink, 5–8 mm (0.2–0.3 in) diameter, with four petals. The fruit is a red or black drupe, 3–5 cm (1.2–2.0 in) diameter, containing a single seed.

How to Grow Montmorency Cherry - Plant Care & Tips

Also called

  • Prunus cerasus
  • Morello cherry
  • Tart cherry
  • Black cherry
  • Sweet cherry

Common Knowledge

  • The montmorency cherry is a variety of tart cherry.
  • The montmorency cherry is native to North America.
  • The montmorency cherry is the most popular variety of tart cherry in the United States.
  • The montmorency cherry is used in pies, jams, and other desserts.
  • The montmorency cherry is also used in some savory dishes.
  • The montmorency cherry has a high concentration of antioxidants.
  • The montmorency cherry has been shown to have potential health benefits.
  • The montmorency cherry is available fresh, frozen, or canned.
  • The montmorency cherry is a member of the rose family.
  • The montmorency cherry is also known as the tart cherry.

How to Grow

  1. For montmorency cherry, first step is to get the soil test and make sure the pH level is between 5 and
  2. Next, get the plants or seeds from a reputable source.
  3. Plant the seeds or plants in early spring, after the last frost date.
  4. Water the plants regularly, making sure the soil is moist but not soggy.
  5. Fertilize the plants with a balanced fertilizer according to package directions.
  6. Prune the plants to encourage new growth and to remove any dead or diseased branches.
  7. Watch for pests and diseases and take action to control them if necessary.
  8. Harvest the cherries when they are ripe and eat them fresh, or use them in recipes.
  9. Store any extras in the freezer for later use.
  10. Enjoy!

The Soil

About soil condition, the best type of soil for planting a Montmorency cherry tree is one that is moist but well-drained. The ideal pH range for Montmorency cherry trees is 5.5 to 6.5. If the soil is too alkaline, it can lead to nutritional deficiencies in the tree. If the soil is too acidic, it can make the tree more susceptible to diseases.

Light requirement

Similar to other types of cherries, the Montmorency cherry tree needs full sun to produce fruit. The sun helps the tree to produce sugars, which in turn make the fruit taste sweeter. If you live in an area with a lot of trees, you may need to thin out the canopy to allow more sunlight to reach the cherry tree.

Ideal Temperature

The temperature condition that is ideal for the growth of montmorency cherries is between 68 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. However, the trees can tolerate temperatures as low as 60 degrees and as high as 80 degrees.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 70%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to turn brown and drop off. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to turn yellow and drop off. The ideal temperature for this plant is around 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit.

Fertilizing

Regarding fertilizer, usually the plant doesn't need much. If you do decide to fertilize, Montmorency cherry roots are relatively shallow, so a fertilizer with a lower nitrogen content would be less likely to burn the roots.

Light requirement

Pruning is an important part of caring for a montmorency cherry tree. Without proper pruning, the tree can become overgrown and produce fewer cherries. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches. Cut back any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. Also, remove any suckers that are growing from the base of the tree.

About Propagating

Propagation is most commonly done by seed, although it can also be done by grafting or rooting hardwood cuttings. Seed germination typically takes place within 4-12 weeks. Grafting and rooting hardwood cuttings are more difficult and are typically done by experienced gardeners or horticulturists.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is based on the age of the plant. A young sapling will grow much faster than an older tree. The average growth rate of a montmorency cherry tree is around 2-3 feet per year.

Common Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are brown rot, powdery mildew, and twig dieback. Brown rot is a fungal disease that affects the fruit, twigs, and leaves of the plant. Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that affects the leaves and flowers of the plant. Twig dieback is a disease that affects the twigs and leaves of the plant.

Tips on Growing

  • Do not forget to water your montmorency cherry plant regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
  • Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture in the soil.
  • Fertilize your plant with a balanced fertilizer once every two weeks during the growing season.
  • Prune your plant regularly to encourage new growth and to keep it looking tidy.
  • Place your plant in an area that receives full sun for best results.
  • Protect your plant from frost damage by covering it with a cloth or burlap bag when cold weather is forecast.
  • Harvest your montmorency cherries when they are ripe and ready to eat!
  • Store any uneaten cherries in the fridge for up to a week.
  • Freeze any surplus cherries for up to six months.
  • Enjoy your delicious montmorency cherries!

Related Plants

  • Cherry Plum: Prunus cerasifera
  • Olive
  • Orange
  • Peach: Prunus persica
  • Pear: Pyrus communis
  • Plum: Prunus domestica
  • Quince: Cydonia oblonga
  • Apricot: Prunus armeniaca
  • Almond: Prunus dulcis
  • Black cherry: Prunus serotina

Source:
Montmorency Cherry | Landmark College
Montmorency Cherry Juice Reduces Muscle Damage Caused by ... - academia.edu
Effects of Montmorency cherry supplementation on exercise capacity …

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