Sour cherry (Prunus cerasus)

Also known as: Tart cherry, Amarelle cherry

Sour cherries (*Prunus cerasus*) are cultivated in several countries, notably Turkey, Poland, the United States (especially Michigan), Hungary, and Russia. These cherries are characterized by their bright, tangy flavor, which combines sweetness and acidity. They are frequently used in various culinary dishes, especially in baking and cooking.

In This Article

Care Tips Water Sunlight Temperature Soil Fertilize Prune Propagation Repotting Toxicity

Attributes of Sour cherry

Lifespan

Perennial

Plant Type

Tree, Shrub

Plant Height

3.5 m to 10 m

Spread

4.5 m to 6 m

Leaf Color

Green

Flower Size

2.5 cm to 5 cm

Flower Color

White Pink Brown Gray

Images of Sour cherry

Quickly Identify Sour cherry

Deciduous habit reaching 16-26 feet (5-8 meters) in height.

Conspicuous white to pinkish spring blossoms before leaves emerge.

Globular fruits 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, red to dark purple.

Smooth, ovate green leaves with serrated margins and 2 basal glands.

Gray-brown twigs with reddish buds, alternate branching, and bushy appearance.

Scientific Classification of Sour cherry

Phylum

Vascular plants

Class

Dicotyledons

Order

Rosales

Family

Rose

Genus

Prunus

Species

Sour cherry

Planting and Growing of Sour cherry

Care Difficulty

Moderate

Watering Schedule

Every 3 days

Sunlight Requirements

Full sun

Sunshine Duration

6-10 hours

Ideal Temperature

60-70℉

Soil Type

Potting Mix, Peat Mix

Soil pH

6.5-7.5

Fertilizer Type

Balanced

Pruning Season

Spring, Summer

Pruning Area

Branches, Leaves

Pruning Frequency

2 times a year

Repotting Season

Spring

Pot Type

Plastic, Ceramic

How to Water Sour cherry?

Prunus cerasus, or sour cherry, thrives with a consistent watering schedule, ensuring the soil remains moist but never waterlogged. A typical watering session involves applying approximately 1000 ml of water per plant, soaking the root zone thoroughly. This method guarantees that the roots have ample moisture while avoiding the risk of root rot. The key is to allow the top layer of soil to dry slightly between waterings, which encourages deeper root growth and a more resilient plant.

What are the symptoms of an underwatered Sour cherry? ›

What should I do if my Sour cherry is not getting enough water? ›

What are the symptoms of an overwatered Sour cherry? ›

How to save an overwatered Sour cherry? ›

More About Watering Techniques→

What Are the Sunlight Requirements for Sour cherry?

Sunlight Requirements: Full sun, Partial sun

Duration of light: 6 to 8 hours daily

Prunus cerasus ideally requires full sun to partial sun conditions. Optimal light ensures plentiful fruit production, vibrant foliage, and strong growth, fostering overall plant health.

Optimal Duration of Sunlight ›

Solutions for Ideal Sunlight Exposure ›

Benefits of Ideal Sunlight Conditions ›

More About Sunlight Requirements Techniques→

What Is the Ideal Temperature Range for Sour cherry?

Ideal Temperature: 60 ~ 70℉

The ideal temperature range for Prunus cerasus, commonly known as sour cherry, is between 60°F and 70°F. This range provides optimal conditions for growth and fruit production, ensuring that metabolic processes occur efficiently. Maintaining these temperatures promotes strong vegetative growth and enhances flowering and fruit setting.

What Soil is Best for Sour cherry?

Soil type: Loam, Sandy loam, Sandy soil

Soil PH: 6.5 ~ 7.5

Prunus cerasus thrives in well-drained soils, which help in preventing root rot by allowing excess water to flow away easily. This is crucial, as waterlogged conditions can severely impact the plant's health, causing issues such as root diseases. A soil rich in nutrients, including organic matter like compost or well-aged manure, is vital for the optimal growth of Prunus cerasus. Nutrient-rich soils provide essential elements that support robust growth, vibrant foliage, and healthy fruit production. The soil should maintain adequate moisture without being too wet. This balance helps ensure that the roots have access to water during dry periods while preventing over-saturation, supporting overall plant vigor and preventing stress. More About Soil→

How to Fertilize Sour cherry?

Fertilizer type: Balanced

When fertilizing Prunus cerasus, use a balanced fertilizer such as 10-10-10. For liquid fertilizers, apply at a concentration of 1 tablespoon per gallon of water. For solid, granular types, spread 1 pound per 100 square feet of soil. Always follow specific product instructions for best results. More About Fertilizing Techniques→

How to Prune Sour cherry?

Pruning Time: Summer, Winter

Start by cutting out any dead, damaged, or diseased limbs. This helps prevent the spread of infection and infestations. Make cuts at a 45-degree angle just above a healthy bud or branch junction. Thin the branches to open up the tree canopy, which improves light penetration and air circulation. Focus on removing inward-growing branches and those crossing over others. Trim the tree to maintain its shape and size. Aim to achieve a balanced appearance by evenly distributing the cuts around the tree. Prune to maintain a central leader and remove multiple trunks if necessary. More About Pruning Techniques→

How to Propagate Sour cherry plant?

Propagate Time: Spring, Early spring, Late spring

Gather ripe fruits and extract the seeds. Clean them thoroughly to remove pulp residues which can harbor pathogens. Dry them for a few days before storing or using them.

Select healthy branches and cut sections that are at least 6 inches long. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development.

Choose a compatible rootstock and prepare it by making a precise cut. Fit the scion snugly, ensuring cambial layers are in contact, and secure the graft with grafting tape or wax.

More About Propagating Techniques→

How to Repot Sour cherry plant?

Repotting frequency: Every two years

Prunus cerasus signals the need for repotting when its roots start outgrowing the pot and emerging from the drainage holes, or when you observe slowed growth and reduced fruit production. Spring and autumn are optimal times, as the plant enters or exits its dormancy, minimizing stress and maximizing recovery.

Select a pot that is at least 2-3 inches wider in diameter than the current pot. Ensure it has ample drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. A terracotta pot is ideal for its breathability, promoting healthy root aeration, which fosters vigorous growth and fruitful yield over time.

Opt for a well-drained sandy loam that mimics the plant's natural habitat. This type of soil retains the right amount of moisture while allowing excess to drain away, preventing root rot. The sandy texture ensures aeration, promoting healthy root development and ensuring nutrient uptake.

Toxicity of Sour cherry

Is Sour cherry toxic to humans?

Every member of the *Prunus* genus, which encompasses sour cherries and other varieties, possesses parts that are toxic when ingested. The twigs and seeds harbor toxins in the form of hydrogen cyanide, a dangerous substance that can prove fatal if consumed. The effects of this toxin can be quite serious, potentially leading to death in extreme situations. Symptoms resulting from hydrogen cyanide exposure include difficulty breathing, dilated pupils, general weakness, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness or even death. It is possible for individuals to accidentally consume the seeds while enjoying the widely-liked fruits produced by this plant.

WARNING

The judgment on toxicity and danger is for reference only. We DO NOT GUARANTEE any accuracy of such judgment. Therefore, you SHALL NOT rely on such judgment. It is IMPORTANT TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL ADVICE in advance when necessary.

More About Toxic Techniques→