Cherry
UC Links
- How to grow and pest management: Cherries
- Summer pruning overview: Prune Apricot and Cherry Trees in August
The Basics
When to plant
January to early February
Harvest window
May through June, depending on the variety
Fertilization
Nitrogen in spring and post-harvest, additional applications based on tree age, health, and soil quality
Annual care overview
- Prune dead and diseased branches, and roughly 10% of new growth in late summer
- Monitor and control for common pests & diseases, such as brown rot, crown/root rot, and San Jose scale
Some Recommended Varieties for Santa Clara County*
Sweet Cherries: Bing, Black Tartarian, Coe’s Transparent, Craig’s Crimson (self-fertile), Index (self-fertile), Lapins, Rainier, Republican (Black Republican or Black Oregon), Stella, and Van. Verify the number of chill hours based on your location, and note that, unless indicated, Sweet Cherries require a second pollinator—a compatible variety planted nearby or grafted onto the fruiting tree.
Sour Cherries: English Morello, Montmorency, and North Star.
* Many other varieties may also do well here in Santa Clara County. This list is based on UC Master Gardener trials, taste tests, and feedback from local growers.