Regina Cherry Planting, Care, & Propagation Guide.

Welcome to the world of cherry tree cultivation! If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and delectable sweetness to your garden, then growing Regina Cherry trees might just be the perfect choice for you. Regina Cherry, also known as Prunus avium ‘Regina,’ is a popular variety known for its exceptional flavor, beautiful appearance, and ease of cultivation.

Originating from Germany, this cherry tree has gained popularity worldwide for its abundant harvests of dark, juicy cherries. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, this article will guide you through the process of successfully growing and caring for Regina Cherry trees, ensuring a bountiful harvest of these delightful fruits for years to come.

What are Regina Cherry?

Regina Cherry, also known as Prunus avium ‘Regina’, is a popular sweet cherry variety that originated in Germany. It is a self-fertile cultivar, meaning it does not require cross-pollination from another cherry tree to produce fruit. The Regina Cherry tree is known for its vigorous growth, reaching a height of about 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters) and a spread of 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 meters).

It has an upright, rounded canopy with dense foliage, providing good shade during the summer months. The fruit of the Regina Cherry is medium to large in size, with a dark red to almost black skin. The cherries have a firm, juicy flesh that is exceptionally sweet and flavorful, making them perfect for fresh eating. They ripen in mid to late summer, typically around July or August, depending on the climate.

When it comes to cultivation, Regina Cherry trees prefer full sun exposure and well-drained soil. They are relatively easy to grow and are adaptable to a wide range of climates, including both cold and warm regions. However, they tend to perform best in areas with cool winters and mild summers. Pruning is essential to maintain the shape and health of the tree.

It is recommended to prune during the dormant season to remove dead or diseased wood, as well as to thin out branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Overall, Regina Cherry is a delightful cherry variety for home gardeners, offering beautiful blossoms in spring and delicious fruit in summer.

What do Regina Cherry taste like?

Regina cherries are known for their exceptional flavor profile. They have a rich, sweet taste with a perfect balance of tartness. The flavor is often described as complex and intense, with hints of blackberry and plum. The cherries have a luscious juiciness that adds to their overall appeal.

The sweetness of Regina cherries is not overpowering, making them enjoyable for those who prefer a slightly less sugary taste. Overall, the flavor of Regina cherries is highly regarded and makes them a popular choice among cherry enthusiasts.

How to start Regina Cherry from seed

Starting Regina Cherry trees from seeds can be a bit challenging, as the resulting trees may not have the same characteristics as the parent tree. However, if you are determined to grow Regina Cherry trees from seeds, here is a guide to help you get started:

1. Seed Selection: Obtain fresh Regina Cherry seeds from a reliable source. Look for fully matured cherries and extract the seeds carefully. Rinse off any pulp or residue from the seeds.
2. Cold Stratification: Regina Cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy and improve germination rates. Place the seeds in a damp paper towel or a plastic bag with moistened peat moss, vermiculite, or sand. Seal the bag or wrap the paper towel around the seeds and place them in the refrigerator for about 90-120 days. This mimics the natural winter conditions the seeds would experience outdoors.
3. Germination: After the cold stratification period, remove the seeds from the refrigerator and sow them in individual pots or seed trays filled with a well-draining potting mix. Plant the seeds about 1 inch deep and cover them lightly with soil. Water the soil gently to ensure it is evenly moist.
4. Warmth and Light: Place the pots or trays in a warm location with indirect sunlight or under grow lights. The ideal temperature for germination is around 70-75°F (21-24°C). Use a heating mat if necessary to maintain the warmth. Avoid exposing the seeds to direct sunlight, as it can dry out the soil quickly.
5. Watering and Care: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the seeds gently using a misting spray bottle or a watering can with a fine nozzle. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to rotting. Ensure good airflow around the seedlings to prevent fungal diseases.
6. Transplanting: Once the seedlings have developed a few sets of true leaves and are strong enough to handle, transplant them into larger pots or containers. Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Place the young trees in a sunny location with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
7. Pruning and Training: As the Regina Cherry trees grow, prune them regularly to shape their structure and promote branching. Remove any weak or crossing branches to maintain an open canopy. Consider staking or providing support to the young trees to prevent them from bending or breaking in strong winds.
8. Hardening Off and Planting Outdoors: Before planting the Regina Cherry trees in their permanent location outdoors, gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions. This process, known as hardening off, involves exposing the trees to outdoor conditions for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the duration over a period of 1-2 weeks. Once hardened off, choose a sunny spot in your garden with well-draining soil and plant the trees at the same depth they were growing in their containers.

Remember, growing cherry trees from seeds can be unpredictable, and it may take several years for the trees to bear fruit. If you are looking for more reliable and faster results, consider obtaining grafted Regina Cherry trees from a reputable nursery. Grafted trees ensure that you will have a tree with the desired characteristics of the Regina Cherry variety.

When to plant Regina Cherry outdoors

The ideal time to plant Regina Cherry trees is in the early spring, after the last frost has passed. This allows the tree to establish its root system before the hot summer months. Planting in early spring also gives the tree ample time to acclimate to its new environment and develop strong roots before winter arrives.

Growing & care guide Regina Cherry

Regina Cherry trees are a popular choice among gardeners due to their beautiful blossoms and delicious fruit. To ensure the health and productivity of your Regina Cherry tree, it is important to follow some best practices for caring for it. Here are some guidelines to help you achieve success:

1. Planting: Choose a location that receives full sun exposure for at least 6-8 hours a day. The soil should be well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic with a pH level between 6.0 and 6.8. Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter such as compost to improve its structure and nutrient content.
2. Watering: Proper watering is crucial, especially during the first few years of growth. Young trees require regular watering to establish their root systems. Water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring the soil is moist but not waterlogged. As the tree matures, reduce the frequency of watering but increase the amount of water given during each session.
3. Pruning: Pruning is essential for maintaining the shape, health, and productivity of your Regina Cherry tree. Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. Additionally, prune any crossing or rubbing branches to prevent them from causing wounds or blocking sunlight. Prune during the dormant season, preferably in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins.
4. Fertilizing: Cherry trees, including Regina Cherry, benefit from regular fertilization to promote healthy growth and fruit production. Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring, just as the tree starts to break dormancy. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the appropriate amount to use based on the size and age of your tree. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of fruit production.
5. Pest and Disease Control: Regina Cherry trees are susceptible to various pests and diseases, such as aphids, cherry fruit flies, and brown rot. Regularly inspect your tree for signs of infestation or disease, and take appropriate measures to control them. This may include using organic insecticides, practicing good sanitation by removing fallen fruits and leaves, and providing adequate air circulation around the tree to prevent fungal diseases.
6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or compost, around the base of the tree. Mulching helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and regulates soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rotting.
7. Harvesting: Regina Cherries are typically ready for harvest in mid to late summer. Harvest the cherries when they are fully ripe, firm, and have developed their characteristic dark red color. Gently twist or cut the cherries from the stems to avoid damaging the tree.

By following these best practices, you can ensure the health, vigor, and productivity of your Regina Cherry tree. With proper care, you will be rewarded with a bountiful harvest of delicious cherries for many years to come.

Harvesting guide for Regina Cherry

Regina cherries are typically ready for harvest in mid to late summer, usually around July or August, depending on your specific climate and growing conditions. To determine if the cherries are ready to be harvested, you can look for a few indicators:

1. Color: Regina cherries are dark red when fully ripe. Wait until the cherries have a deep, rich red color before harvesting. Avoid picking them when they are still green or partially red.
2. Firmness: Gently squeeze a few cherries to check their firmness. Ripe Regina cherries should be plump and firm, but not too soft. If they are too soft, they may be overripe or starting to decay.
3. Taste: Taste a few cherries to ensure they have reached the desired sweetness. Regina cherries are known for their excellent flavor, so make sure they have developed the right balance of sweetness and tartness.

To harvest Regina cherries, follow these steps:

1. Use clean, sharp pruning shears or scissors to cut the cherries from the tree. This helps prevent any damage to the branches or the cherries themselves.
2. Hold the cherry cluster gently with one hand while cutting the stem with the other. Avoid pulling or tugging on the cherries, as this can damage the fruit or the tree.
3. Place the harvested cherries in a shallow container or basket to avoid crushing them. Be careful not to stack too many cherries on top of each other, as they can bruise easily.
4. Harvest cherries in the morning when temperatures are cooler. This helps preserve their freshness and flavor.
5. If you have a large harvest, it’s best to pick the cherries in multiple sessions, as they don’t all ripen at the same time. Check the tree every few days to collect the ripe cherries.

After harvesting, it’s important to handle the cherries with care to maintain their quality. Store them in a cool place, ideally in the refrigerator, to prolong their freshness. Regina cherries can be enjoyed fresh, used in various culinary creations, or preserved through freezing, canning, or making jams and preserves.