How to Grow a Black Cherry Tree

Black Cherry (Prunus serotina) belongs to the Rosaceae Rose family. Other names include wild black, rum and choke cherry. The tree grows naturally in the wild, particularly in drained, sandy to rocky soil. It's white flowers have 5 petals with quarter-inch diameters. The fruit matures between June and October and has many uses. Its wood ranks just below Black Walnut for furniture making.

Things You'll Need

• Seedling
• Garden shovel
• Water

Instructions

1. Select a nursery seedling 1 year old or more for best results. Zones 3 to 9 offer good conditions for growth and fruit. Plant Black Cherry in the spring according to the label and planting zone.

2. Locate an area to accommodate the tree's spread and height. The Black Cherry sometimes reaches up to 100-feet tall with average height of 50 feet. Spread averages 25 to 30 feet.

3. Grow the tree in a sunny location. Black Cherry tolerates partial shade. Non-shaded areas promote maximum growth of 4 to 5 feet per year.

4. Plant in deep soil with good drainage.

5. Dig a hole with a garden shovel deep enough for the roots. Remove any nearby competitive weeds or plants.

6. Place the seeding in the hole and cover with soil.

7. Provide water to keep the soil moist for the first few weeks. Little maintenance is required once established.

Tips & Warnings

• When planting more than one seedling space about 9 feet apart. When the tree reaches 7 inches in diameter, dig up and replant 20 feet apart.

• Pests include aphids, borers and tent caterpillars. Diseases include canker and leaf spot.

• See a local home and garden center for pesticides if suitable and read directions for application.

• Never let animals eat leaves damaged by drought, frost, wilting or on the ground from storms. They release the poison cyanide. Rake and bag the fallen leaves, and then dispose.