Rainier Cherry Planting, Care, & Propagation Guide.

Welcome to the world of Rainier cherries, a delightful and highly sought-after variety of cherry trees. With their vibrant golden-yellow skin and sweet, juicy flesh, Rainier cherries are a true delight for both the eyes and the taste buds. Named after Mount Rainier in Washington state, where they were first developed, these cherries have gained popularity worldwide for their exceptional flavor and unique appearance.

If you have ever dreamt of growing your own Rainier cherry tree and indulging in the luscious fruits it produces, you have come to the right place. In this article, we will explore the art of growing Rainier cherries, from selecting the right tree and planting it, to providing the necessary care and maintenance for a bountiful harvest. So, grab your gardening tools and let’s embark on a journey to cultivate these heavenly cherries in your very own backyard.

What is a Rainier Cherry?

Rainier cherries are a type of sweet cherry known for their beautiful appearance and delicious flavor. They are named after Mount Rainier in Washington state, where they were first developed in the 1950s. Rainier cherries have a pale yellow to golden skin with a slight blush of red, and their flesh is firm, juicy, and creamy in color.

These cherries are exceptionally sweet with a delicate, floral flavor that is often described as honey-like. Rainier cherries are highly sought after and are considered a premium variety in the cherry world. They are typically harvested in late spring to early summer and are a favorite for eating fresh, as well as for use in desserts and preserves.

What does a Rainier Cherry taste like?

Rainier cherries are known for their exceptional flavor profile. They are considered one of the sweetest and most flavorful cherry varieties available. The taste of Rainier cherries can be described as a perfect balance between sweetness and acidity.

These cherries have a delicate, creamy-yellow flesh that is incredibly juicy and tender. The sweetness of Rainier cherries is often compared to honey or sugar, with a subtle floral undertone. The high sugar content gives them a luscious, almost candy-like flavor that is truly delightful.

In addition to their sweetness, Rainier cherries also possess a slight tartness, which adds a refreshing and tangy note to their taste. This delicate acidity helps to balance out the sweetness, creating a harmonious flavor experience.

The flavor of Rainier cherries is often described as complex and multidimensional. It is not just about sweetness and tartness, but also about the nuances and subtleties that make them so special. Some people even detect hints of vanilla or almond in their taste, which further enhances their unique flavor profile.

Overall, Rainier cherries offer a delectable combination of sweetness, acidity, and subtle floral notes. They are truly a treat for the taste buds and are highly sought after by cherry enthusiasts.

How to start Rainier Cherry from seed

Starting Rainier cherry trees can be a rewarding experience, as these trees produce delicious and sweet fruit. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you successfully grow Rainier cherry trees:

1. Selection of Graft Stock: It is recommended to start Rainier cherry trees from graft stock rather than seeds. Grafting ensures that the tree will have the desired characteristics and will start fruiting earlier. Look for a reputable nursery or supplier that offers Rainier cherry graft stock.
2. Planting Location: Choose a location that receives full sun for at least 6-8 hours a day. Rainier cherry trees prefer well-draining soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0. Ensure that the planting site has good air circulation to prevent diseases.
3. Soil Preparation: Before planting, prepare the soil by removing any weeds, rocks, or debris. Incorporate organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve soil fertility and drainage. It’s also a good idea to perform a soil test to determine if any amendments are needed.
4. Digging the Hole: Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the root system of the graft stock. Make sure the hole is at least twice as wide as the root ball and slightly shallower than the depth of the root ball.
5. Planting the Graft Stock: Place the graft stock in the center of the hole, ensuring that the bud union (the swollen area where the graft was made) is above the soil line. Gently backfill the hole with soil, firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
6. Watering: After planting, thoroughly water the tree to settle the soil and provide moisture to the roots. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged during the first year of growth.
7. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent moisture buildup. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
8. Pruning: Prune the newly planted Rainier cherry tree by removing any damaged or crossing branches. This will help shape the tree and promote healthy growth. Avoid heavy pruning during the first year to allow the tree to establish itself.
9. Fertilization: Rainier cherry trees benefit from regular fertilization. Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again in late summer, following the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduced fruit production.
10. Pest and Disease Management: Monitor the tree regularly for pests like aphids, cherry fruit flies, and cherry slugs. Use organic or chemical controls as necessary. Additionally, practice good sanitation by removing fallen leaves and fruit to prevent the spread of diseases.
11. Pollination: Rainier cherry trees are self-unfruitful, meaning they require cross-pollination from another compatible cherry tree. Plant a different variety of cherry tree nearby to ensure proper pollination and fruit set.
12. Harvesting: Rainier cherries are ready for harvest when they turn a golden-yellow color with a slight blush of red. Harvest the cherries carefully, as they are delicate and prone to bruising. Enjoy the delicious fruits fresh or use them in various culinary preparations.

Remember, growing cherry trees requires patience and consistent care. With proper attention to watering, fertilizing, and pest management, your Rainier cherry tree will reward you with bountiful harvests for years to come.

When to plant Rainier Cherry outdoors

The ideal time to plant Rainier cherry trees is during the late winter or early spring, preferably when the ground is not frozen and the weather is still cool. This allows the tree to establish its root system before the onset of hot summer temperatures. In most regions, planting Rainier cherry trees in February or March is recommended. However, it’s important to consider the specific climate and frost dates of your region to determine the best time for planting.

Growing & care guide Rainier Cherry

Caring for Rainier cherry trees requires attention to several key aspects, including proper planting, watering, fertilizing, pruning, and pest control. Here are some best practices to ensure the health and productivity of your Rainier cherry tree:

• Choose a well-drained location with full sun exposure for your Rainier cherry tree.
• Ensure the soil is rich in organic matter and has a pH level between 6.0 and 7.0.
• Dig a hole that is wide and deep enough to accommodate the tree’s root system without crowding or bending the roots.
• Position the tree in the hole, ensuring that the bud union (the swollen area where the tree was grafted onto the rootstock) is above the soil level.
• Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
• Water the tree thoroughly after planting.

• Rainier cherry trees require regular watering, especially during dry spells or in the first few years after planting.
• Water deeply, ensuring the soil is moistened to a depth of at least 12 inches.
• Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot and other diseases.
• Mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weed growth.

• Apply a balanced fertilizer specifically formulated for fruit trees in early spring, just before new growth begins.
• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions regarding the amount and frequency of application.
• Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizers, as they can promote excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.

• Prune Rainier cherry trees during the dormant season, typically in late winter or early spring.
• Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.
• Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration.
• Maintain an open center structure, allowing light to reach the inner branches.
• Prune to shape the tree and remove any suckers or water sprouts.

• Monitor your Rainier cherry tree regularly for signs of pests such as aphids, cherry fruit fly, or cherry slug.
• Use organic or chemical insecticides as necessary, following the instructions carefully.
• Install bird netting to protect the fruit from birds.
• Keep the area around the tree clean and free of fallen fruit or debris to minimize pest attraction.

Remember that Rainier cherry trees are self-sterile, meaning they require cross-pollination from another compatible cherry variety to produce fruit. Therefore, it is advisable to plant another cherry tree nearby for optimal fruit set. By following these best practices, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest of delicious Rainier cherries from your tree.

Harvesting guide for Rainier Cherry

Rainier cherries are a popular variety known for their sweet and juicy flavor. Harvesting Rainier cherries at the right time is crucial to ensure optimal taste and texture. Here’s a guide on when and how to harvest Rainier cherries:

1. Timing: Rainier cherries typically ripen in late spring to early summer, depending on your specific climate and location. The cherries will turn from a pale yellow to a golden yellow color when they are fully ripe. It’s important to monitor your trees regularly during this period to catch them at their peak ripeness.
2. Firmness: Gently squeeze a few cherries to check their firmness. Ripe Rainier cherries should be slightly soft but not mushy. If they are too firm, they need more time to ripen, and if they are too soft, they may be overripe.
3. Color: Look for a consistent golden yellow color on the cherries. Avoid harvesting cherries that have green or pale yellow patches, as they are not fully ripe and may lack sweetness.
4. Taste: The best way to determine if Rainier cherries are ready for harvest is by tasting a few. Pick a cherry and sample its flavor. Ripe Rainier cherries should have a delicate, sweet taste with a hint of tartness.
5. Harvesting: To harvest Rainier cherries, gently twist the stem or cherry from the tree. Avoid pulling or tugging forcefully, as this can damage the branch or the fruit. It’s recommended to wear gloves while harvesting to protect the cherries from bruising and to prevent your hands from getting stained.
6. Storage: Rainier cherries are delicate and have a relatively short shelf life. After harvesting, handle them with care and store them in a cool place, such as the refrigerator, to maintain their freshness. Place them in a single layer to prevent bruising and avoid washing them until you are ready to consume or use them.

Remember, Rainier cherries are highly sought after, so it’s essential to harvest them promptly when they are at their peak ripeness. Enjoy the delicious flavor of your homegrown Rainier cherries in various recipes or simply savor them as a fresh and healthy snack.