Bing Cherry Planting, Care, & Propagation Guide.

Welcome to the world of Bing cherries, where luscious, juicy fruits burst with flavor and sweetness. If you have ever dreamed of plucking ripe cherries straight from your own backyard, then growing Bing cherry trees might be the perfect endeavor for you. Bing cherries, known for their deep red color and exceptional taste, are a popular choice among home gardeners and commercial growers alike.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the art of growing Bing cherry trees, covering everything from selecting the right variety and suitable planting location to nurturing the tree through proper care and maintenance. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or a novice enthusiast, this article will equip you with the knowledge and techniques needed to successfully cultivate your very own Bing cherry tree and enjoy the bountiful harvest it brings.

What is a Bing Cherry?

Bing Cherry is a popular and widely grown variety of sweet cherry tree (Prunus avium). It is known for its large, firm, and juicy dark red fruits that have a deliciously sweet flavor. Bing cherries are typically heart-shaped and have a glossy skin.

The tree itself is vigorous and can reach a height of 30 feet or more. It produces beautiful white flowers in spring, which are followed by the development of the cherries in early summer. Bing cherries are highly prized for their excellent taste and are commonly used for fresh eating, baking, canning, and making preserves. They require a moderate to cold winter climate and are best suited for USDA hardiness zones 5-9.

What does Bing Cherry taste like?

Bing cherries are known for their exceptional flavor profile, making them one of the most popular and sought-after cherry varieties. They have a rich, sweet taste with a slight tanginess that adds depth to their flavor.

The primary flavor of Bing cherries is a luscious sweetness that is often described as intense and indulgent. The sweetness is balanced by a subtle tartness, which gives the cherries a refreshing and vibrant quality. This combination of sweet and tangy flavors creates a well-rounded taste experience.

Bing cherries also have a hint of acidity, which adds a pleasant zing to their flavor. This acidity enhances the overall taste and helps to cut through the sweetness, preventing them from becoming overly cloying.

In terms of texture, Bing cherries are firm and juicy. Their flesh is succulent and tender, providing a satisfying bite. The juiciness of Bing cherries further enhances their flavor, as it releases bursts of sweet and tangy juices with every bite.

Overall, Bing cherries offer a delightful flavor profile that is both sweet and tangy, with a perfect balance of acidity. Their rich, intense sweetness combined with their firm and juicy texture makes them a true treat for cherry enthusiasts.

How to start Bing Cherry from seed

Starting Bing Cherry trees from seeds can be a bit challenging as they may not grow true to the parent tree and may take several years to bear fruit. However, if you are up for the challenge, here is a guide on starting Bing Cherry trees from seeds:

1. Seed Collection: Collect ripe Bing Cherry fruits from a healthy and disease-free tree. Make sure the cherries are fully ripe and have a deep red color.
2. Seed Extraction: Remove the flesh of the cherries by gently squeezing them or by using a spoon. Wash the seeds thoroughly to remove any remaining fruit pulp.
3. Cold Stratification: Bing Cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy. Place the cleaned seeds in a damp paper towel or a plastic bag with moistened peat moss, vermiculite, or sand. Seal the bag or wrap the towel around the seeds and place them in the refrigerator for 10-12 weeks. This mimics the natural winter conditions and prepares the seeds for germination.
4. Germination: After the cold stratification period, remove the seeds from the refrigerator and plant them in seed trays or small pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and cover them with a thin layer of soil.
5. Warmth and Moisture: Place the seed trays or pots in a warm location with temperatures around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. You can cover the trays or pots with plastic wrap or a clear plastic dome to create a greenhouse-like environment that retains moisture.
6. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are strong enough to handle, usually after 6-8 weeks, they can be transplanted into larger pots or containers. Use a well-draining soil mix and ensure the pots have drainage holes.
7. Care and Maintenance: Provide the seedlings with adequate sunlight, preferably 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Water the plants regularly, keeping the soil evenly moist but not soggy. Fertilize the seedlings with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer according to the package instructions.
8. Hardening Off and Planting Outdoors: Before planting the Bing Cherry seedlings in their permanent location outdoors, gradually expose them to outdoor conditions over a period of 1-2 weeks. Start by placing them in a sheltered area for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the exposure to sunlight and wind. Once the seedlings have acclimated, choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil and transplant them, ensuring they are spaced at least 15-20 feet apart.

Remember, growing Bing Cherry trees from seeds is a lengthy process, and the resulting trees may not produce the same quality or quantity of cherries as the parent tree. For more reliable and faster results, consider obtaining grafted Bing Cherry trees from a reputable nursery.

When to plant Bing Cherry outdoors

The ideal time to plant Bing Cherry trees is during the late winter or early spring, before the tree starts to bud. This allows the tree to establish its root system before the onset of hot summer weather. Planting in late winter or early spring also gives the tree ample time to acclimate to its new environment and develop strong roots before the following winter.

Growing & care guide

Bing cherries are a popular variety known for their sweet and juicy flavor. To ensure the health and productivity of your Bing cherry tree, it is important to follow some best practices for caring for it. Here are some key guidelines to keep in mind:

1. Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. Bing cherry trees thrive in well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5.
2. Planting: When planting a Bing cherry tree, make sure to dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the root ball. Ensure that the graft union (the swollen area where the tree was grafted onto the rootstock) is above the soil line. Backfill the hole with a mixture of native soil and organic matter, such as compost or aged manure.
3. Watering: Proper watering is crucial for the health of your Bing cherry tree. Young trees require regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water deeply, ensuring that the soil is moistened to a depth of at least 12 inches. Once established, cherry trees are moderately drought-tolerant, but it is still important to provide supplemental irrigation during extended dry periods.
4. Fertilization: Bing cherry trees benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 14-14-14 formula, in early spring before new growth begins. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application rates. Avoid fertilizing after mid-summer to prevent late-season growth that may be susceptible to winter damage.
5. Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, size, and overall health of your Bing cherry tree. Prune during late winter or early spring when the tree is dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any suckers or water sprouts that may have emerged from the base or trunk. Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration. Aim for an open center or modified central leader shape to allow sunlight to reach all parts of the tree.
6. Pest and Disease Control: Bing cherry trees can be susceptible to various pests and diseases, including aphids, cherry fruit fly, brown rot, and bacterial canker. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of infestation or disease, such as distorted leaves, fruit damage, or oozing cankers. Use organic or chemical controls as necessary, following the instructions carefully. Applying dormant oil spray during the tree’s dormant period can help control overwintering pests.
7. Harvesting: Bing cherries are typically ready for harvest in late spring or early summer, depending on your location and climate. The cherries should be firm, plump, and have a deep red color. Gently twist or cut the cherries from the stem, being careful not to damage the fruit or the tree.

By following these best practices, you can ensure the successful growth and fruiting of your Bing cherry tree. Remember to monitor your tree regularly, provide proper care, and address any issues promptly to enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious Bing cherries.

Harvesting Guide

Bing cherries are a popular variety known for their large size, deep red color, and sweet flavor. Here’s a guide on when and how to harvest Bing cherries:

1. Timing: Bing cherries are typically ready for harvest in late spring to early summer, depending on your specific climate and location. The exact timing can vary, so it’s important to monitor your cherry tree closely.
2. Color: One of the key indicators of ripeness is the color of the cherries. Bing cherries should have a deep, dark red color when they are fully ripe. Avoid harvesting cherries that are still light red or have a greenish tinge as they may not be fully matured.
3. Firmness: Gently squeeze a few cherries to check their firmness. Ripe Bing cherries should be firm but slightly yielding to the touch. If they feel too soft or mushy, they may be overripe and prone to spoilage.
4. Taste: Taste-testing a few cherries is a great way to determine if they are ready for harvest. Bing cherries should have a rich, sweet flavor when fully ripe. If they taste bland or sour, they may need more time on the tree.
5. Harvesting: To harvest Bing cherries, hold the stem close to the fruit and gently twist and pull upwards. Avoid pulling on the cherries themselves, as this can damage the fruit or the tree. It’s best to harvest cherries in the morning when they are cool and less likely to bruise.
6. Storage: Bing cherries are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have an abundant harvest, you can store them for a short period. Place the cherries in a shallow container or a single layer in a breathable bag and store them in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to a week.

Remember, cherry trees can produce a large number of cherries, so it’s important to monitor the ripening process regularly. Harvesting cherries at their peak of ripeness ensures the best flavor and quality. Enjoy your Bing cherries fresh, use them in recipes, or consider preserving them through freezing, canning, or making jams and preserves.