Prunus avium 'Merchant' (F)

Water

Sweet cherry trees like the 'Merchant' variety should be watered deeply to ensure the water reaches the root zone; this typically involves providing about 2 gallons of water per week for young trees. During the dry season or in particularly hot climates, increase the frequency to two or three times per week, making sure that the soil around the tree is moist but not waterlogged. Watering is especially crucial during the first few years as the tree establishes its root system. In later years, sweet cherry trees may require less frequent watering, but it's important to provide substantial water during fruit set and development. Remember to reduce watering as the tree matures and becomes more drought tolerant.

Light

The sweet cherry tree requires full sunlight to thrive, meaning it needs at least 6 to 8 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day. The best spot for planting a sweet cherry tree is in an open area, away from tall buildings or other structures that might cast shade. Avoid low-lying areas where cold air or frost could settle, as this could adversely affect the tree's growth and fruit production.

Temperature

Sweet cherry trees are adaptable to various temperature ranges, but they grow best when the temperatures are between 35°F and 85°F. They can handle winter chill down to around -20°F, which is essential for proper dormancy and fruit set. While they can tolerate brief periods of higher temperatures, prolonged exposure to heat above 85°F can be detrimental. The ideal temperature conditions are moderate to warm days and cool nights, particularly around the flowering and fruiting periods.

Pruning

Pruning of sweet cherry trees is done to promote healthy growth, improve air circulation, and ensure good fruit production. It's best to prune in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any that are crossing or growing inward. For optimal fruit size and quality, thinning out some of the fruiting branches may be necessary. Regular pruning is also needed to maintain a strong tree structure.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Sweet Cherry 'Merchant' thrives in well-draining, loamy soil with a pH range of 6.2 to 6.8. For the best soil mix, combine garden soil, compost, and perlite to ensure proper drainage and fertility. Regular amendments with organic matter can enhance soil health and support vigorous growth.

Repotting

Sweet Cherry 'Merchant' trees, being larger fruit trees, are not typically repotted. They are planted in a permanent location outdoors, where they can grow without the need for repotting. In commercial orchards, trees are spaced to accommodate their full growth size over many years.

Humidity & Misting

Sweet Cherry 'Merchant' prefers moderate humidity levels but is adaptable to various conditions outdoors. Although specific humidity levels are not crucial for cherries, they should not be subjected to prolonged dry or humid extremes without adequate air circulation.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Growing Sweet Cherry 'Merchant' indoors is not advisable due to its size.

• Outdoor

  Plant in full sun, fertile soil, water regularly, and protect from frost.

• Hardiness zone

  5-7 USDA

Life cycle

Sweet Cherry 'Merchant' begins its life as a seed, germinating in the spring to produce a small sapling. This sapling grows into a young tree that matures over several years, developing a strong root system and branching structure. Once mature, usually after the third or fourth year, the tree begins to flower in the spring, with the blossoms being pollinated by insects, primarily bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into fruit, with the cherries typically ripening by mid-summer. The fruit is harvested when ripe, and any fallen cherries or those left on the tree may serve as a seed source for new saplings. The tree can be productive for many years, often several decades, and goes through an annual cycle of dormancy in the winter, followed by a burst of growth in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Prunus avium 'Merchant', commonly known as the sweet cherry, is typically propagated through grafting. This popular method is usually undertaken in late winter or early spring, coinciding with the dormant season before the sap begins to flow. A desirable scion wood—year-old growth of the 'Merchant' variety—is selected and grafted onto a compatible rootstock, often a seedling or clonal selection that provides disease resistance and size control. The scion should be about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) long with 2-3 buds and is commonly joined to the rootstock using techniques such as the whip and tongue graft or the cleft graft. The union is then sealed with grafting tape or wax to prevent desiccation and infection. Successful grafting requires a clean cut and a snug fit between the scion and rootstock to ensure vascular tissue alignment, which will lead to the successful establishment of the grafted plant.