Rainier Cherry Tree

The Rainier Cherry (Prunus avium 'Rainier') is a cold hardy, very adaptable, drought tolerant cherry tree that enjoys full sun but can tolerate some light shade. This particular cherry tree is commonly planted in USDA growing zones 4-9, is known to have the sweetest cherries available and its stunning fall foliage. This semi-dwarf variety will reach a mature height/width of 10-15 feet and typically fruits within its first year but does require a cross pollinator for the fruit to form (we recommend the Bing or Black Tartarian as a pollinator). The cherry tree will thrive in nearly any soil type but drainage is essential so be sure there is no standing water where you intend to plant. Typical harvest time for Rainiers is around mid to late July.

Planting Instructions:
1) Make your hole three times as wide and just as deep as the root ball.
2) Place your tree in the hole, carefully spread the roots out and begin back filling the hole. Tamp down the soil as you fill to avoid any air pockets from forming.
3) Water to secure the tree and remove any additional air pockets in the soil. Add more soil if necessary after settling.
4) Spread a layer of mulch over the soil around your Cherry Tree to help encourage healthy growth and protect your tree from competing growth (weeds/grasses).

Watering: During the growing season, if your tree receives at least an inch of rain every 10 days then no additional irrigation is necessary. If the season is hot and dry then you may need to provide some additional water. The best way to water is by using a slow trickling garden hose left at the base of the tree. This will allow the water to penetrate the soil more deeply and prevent it from running off over the soil surface. Make sure the ground is fully moisturized all around the root system. Mulching will greatly assist in maintaining soil moisture.

Pruning:  A year after planting your Cherry Tree, prune your tree in the late to end of winter while dormant. Shape the tree to encourage horizontal branch growth with space between branches. Prune once a year as necessary to remove weak, drooping branches. These are usually poor fruit bearing branches and removing them will encourage positive air flow and healthy growth. Also make sure light can penetrate the center of the canopy.

Fertilization: Good, nutrient rich soil should only require the addition of nitrogen. Fertilize in the spring and mid-summer using nitrogen fertilizer twice annually applying 2 weeks after planting and 4 weeks after the first application. Use a complete fertilizer such as 10-10-10 and apply at the rate of 0.05 pounds of actual nitrogen per dose.  Fertilizer application ratios vary upon the formulation so be sure to follow package directions. When applying, be sure fertilizer is 6 to 8 inches away from the trunk around the tree to prevent the roots from burning. Organic fertilizers such as manure or blood meal are highly discouraged as their nitrogen levels cannot be measured. Keep in mind that Cherry Trees require high levels of nitrogen early in the season and lower levels during the late summer.

Pests: Cherry Trees can be susceptible to Brown Rot. The best prevention for this problem is proper pruning to provide good air circulation. Be sure there is ample room between branches. Remove any infected blossoms, fruit or leaves and inspect your tree continuously to catch any early signs of the disease. To spot Brown Rot, look for brown, soggy flowers or mummified looking fruit on your tree. For control once the disease is recognized, use a sulfur spray 4 times: when flower buds are pink, when flowers are open, right after petal fall, and 2 weeks after petal fall.

Tips:
*Surround your Cherry Tree with a thin layer of mulch each spring.
*In colder climates, avoid fertilizing after midsummer to prevent new growth that won’t harden before fall frosts.
*Prevent animals such as rabbits from damaging your tree by placing a circular wire about a foot high around the base of the tree especially during winter.
*To avoid root injury, place fertilizer in a band 6 to 8 inches from the trunk around the tree. Organic forms of fertilizer (manure, blood meal or bone meal) are not recommended due to the element analysis being unavailable and that those nutrients may be released throughout the season.