The cherry plum tree is a fruit tree Prized for its generous yield and delicious fruit, the cherry plum tree requires some preparation and knowledge to ensure healthy growth and an abundant harvest. In this tutorial, we detail all the essential steps, from choosing the right variety for your region to post-harvest care. You'll discover how to prepare the soil, plant correctly, protect the tree from diseases and pests, and optimize the harvest. With these practical tips, even a beginner gardener can easily and effectively grow a cherry plum tree.
Table of contents
Choosing the cherry plum variety
The main varieties cultivated in France
The cherry plum tree comes in several varieties adapted to French climates and soils. Among the most widespread is the 'Reine-Claude d'Oullins' variety, known for its sweet, green fruit, ideal for temperate regions. The 'Cœur de Pigeon' produces juicy red cherries, highly prized for eating fresh. The 'Merisier Napoléon' variety is robust and tolerant of varying soil types, while the 'Bigarreau Burlat' is often chosen for its abundant spring harvest. Each variety has its own characteristics in terms of size, taste, and harvest time.
Selection criteria according to region and climate
When choosing a cherry plum tree, it's important to consider the local climate. Early varieties, such as Burlat, are better suited to regions with mild springs, while late varieties are more resistant to late-season frosts. Cherry plum trees generally thrive in sunny locations sheltered from cold, damp winds. It's also advisable to check the tree's resistance to common diseases in the area to minimize the need for chemical treatments.
Varieties adapted to small gardens or larger production
Some cherry plum trees are particularly well-suited to small spaces, such as dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties, which allow for easy harvesting and reduced maintenance. For larger-scale orchards, standard varieties like Reine-Claude d'Oullins or Bigarreau Napoléon are preferable, offering taller trees and higher yields. It is recommended to combine different varieties to encourage pollination and achieve a staggered harvest period.
Where to plant a cherry plum tree
Ideal exposure
Cherry plum trees thrive in a sunny location. Direct sunlight of at least six hours a day promotes flowering and fruit ripening. It is advisable to choose a site sheltered from cold winds and drafts, which can damage the blossoms and reduce production. A south or southeast exposure is generally ideal for maximizing fruit quality and minimizing the risk of fungal diseases related to humidity.
Recommended soil type
Cherry plum trees prefer deep, well-drained, and fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH (between 6 and 7). Heavy or clay soils retain water and promote root rot, while sandy soils require regular additions of organic matter to retain moisture and nutrients. Good drainage is essential to prevent root diseases. Before planting, it is recommended to enrich the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to provide a favorable environment for root development and growth.
Compatibility with other fruit trees
Planting cherry plum trees near other fruit trees can facilitate pollination and improve production. Cherry, plum, and some apple or pear trees can act as pollinators if their flowering periods overlap. It is important to maintain sufficient distance between trees to avoid root competition and allow for good air circulation. This spacing also helps limit the spread of diseases and pests in the orchard.
Soil preparation for cherry plum trees
Cleaning and weeding of the area
Before planting a cherry plum tree, it is essential to clear the area and remove all weeds. Weeds can compete with the tree for water and nutrients and promote the development of diseases. It is recommended to remove deep roots and plant debris, then lightly work the soil to aerate it and facilitate the future root development of the cherry plum tree.
Organic amendments to be expected
To create a rich and balanced soil, the addition of organic amendments is strongly recommended. mature compost Well-rotted manure provides the nutrients necessary for root development and healthy growth of the cherry plum tree. A little compost can also be incorporated to improve soil structure and increase its water retention capacity without causing waterlogging.
Soil preparation before planting
The soil should be worked deeply, to a depth of about 40 centimeters, to loosen and aerate it. This facilitates root development and allows the cherry plum tree to anchor itself better and absorb nutrients. After plowing or digging, it is advisable to level the area and create a slight mound if the ground is damp, to prevent water from stagnating around the base of the tree, which could lead to root diseases.
Sowing and planting cherry plum trees
Ideal time to plant
Cherry plum trees are generally planted in the autumn, after the leaves have fallen, or in early spring, before new growth begins. This period allows the roots to establish themselves in soil that is still loose and moist before periods of intense heat. Avoiding periods of severe frost or drought ensures better root development and reduces stress on the young tree.
Steps in planting a young plant
To plant a cherry plum tree, start by digging a hole twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. Position the tree in the center, spread out the roots, and fill the hole with a mixture of soil and compost. Lightly firm the soil to eliminate air pockets and water thoroughly to encourage establishment. Finally, create a small basin around the base of the tree to facilitate water infiltration.
Planting distances to be observed
The distance between cherry plum trees must be sufficient to ensure good air circulation and limit root competition. For standard varieties, generally allow 4 to 5 meters between each tree. For dwarf or semi-dwarf varieties, 2 to 3 meters is sufficient. Respecting these distances also facilitates maintenance, pruning, and harvesting, while reducing the risk of diseases and pests.
Cherry plum tree care
Watering according to the seasons
Cherry plum trees require regular watering, especially during the first few years after planting. In spring and summer, it is advisable to water deeply once or twice a week if rainfall is insufficient, to encourage deep root development. In autumn and winter, watering needs decrease, and light watering is sufficient if the soil is dry.
Regular mulching and weeding
Mulching around cherry plum trees helps retain moisture, suppresses weed growth, and protects the roots from temperature fluctuations. Use organic materials such as straw, wood chips, or compost. Regular weeding around the base of the tree is also important to prevent nutrient competition and reduce the risk of disease.
Training size and maintenance size
Formative pruning, carried out in the first few years, gives the tree a strong and balanced structure. It's important to favor well-spaced branches and remove weak or poorly oriented shoots. Maintenance pruning, done annually after harvest, involves thinning the canopy, removing dead wood, and maintaining good air circulation to reduce the risk of disease and improve fruit quality.
Prevention and treatment of cherry plum diseases
Most common diseases
The cherry plum tree can be affected by several diseases, including the moniliosisScab and leaf curl are the most common diseases affecting plum trees. Moniliosis causes browning and premature fruit drop, while scab manifests as dark spots on leaves and fruit. Leaf curl deforms leaves and slows tree growth, indirectly impacting fruit production.
Natural prevention methods
To prevent these diseases, maintaining good hygiene in the orchard is essential: collect fallen leaves and fruit, and remove dead branches. Ensure good air circulation by spacing trees properly and pruning regularly. Using varieties resistant to local diseases and respecting planting periods also help reduce the risk of infection.
Possible treatments in case of infection
In case of infection, appropriate treatments can be used while minimizing the use of chemicals. Copper-based treatments or Bordeaux mixture can be applied preventively in early spring and after harvest. For certain diseases, such as brown rot, removing infected fruit and contaminated branches remains an effective method to limit the spread.
Control of cherry plum pests
Identification of the main pests
The cherry plum tree is vulnerable to several pests, including codling moths (fruit worms), aphids, and mites. Codling moths tunnel into the fruit, rendering it inedible. Aphids suck the sap from young shoots, causing stunted growth and leaf deformation, while mites cause leaf spots and drying.
Biological control methods
To limit infestations, biological control is recommended. Introducing ladybugs and lacewings allows for natural control of aphid populations. Pheromone traps can also be installed to capture codling moths before they lay eggs, thus reducing the presence of larvae in the fruit.
Cultural practices to limit attacks
Certain cultural practices help prevent infestations. Regular pruning and thinning of the canopy improves air circulation and reduces humidity, limiting pest proliferation. In addition, cleaning the soil around the cherry plum tree and removing... fruits fallen prevent the bugs find refuge and reproduce near the tree.
Harvesting and preserving cherry plums
Signs of fruit ripeness
Cherry plums are ripe when their color is uniform and glossy, corresponding to the chosen variety. The fruit should be firm but slightly yielding to the touch and detach easily from the tree when picked. Regular monitoring is necessary, as the cherries ripen quickly and may fall if not harvested in time.
Adapted harvesting methods
Harvesting is generally done by hand to avoid damaging the fruit. It is advisable to pick cherries with their stems attached to prolong their shelf life. For large harvests, stepladders and baskets allow for efficient work without damaging the branches or the fruit.
Methods of preservation after harvesting
After harvesting, cherries should be kept cool to prolong their shelf life. Refrigeration, ideally in ventilated containers, will maintain the fruit's quality for several days. For longer storage, cherries can be frozen after washing and drying.
Post-harvest care of the cherry plum tree
Pruning after harvest
After harvesting, light pruning is recommended to remove dead or diseased wood and encourage new branch growth. This pruning also helps maintain a balanced structure and facilitates air circulation within the canopy. It is best to remove branches that cross or grow inwards to keep the tree well-ventilated and vigorous.
Recovery fertilization
At the end of the season, cherry plum trees benefit from a supply of nutrients to prepare for the following year's growth. A balanced fertilizer, rich in potassium and phosphorus, promotes root development and flowering. Application should be made at the base of the tree, avoiding direct contact with the root collar to prevent burning and disease.
Preparing the tree for winter
Before winter, it's advisable to protect cherry plum trees from cold and excessive moisture. Mulching around the base retains heat and soil moisture, while protecting the trunk with a fleece or sleeve prevents frost cracking. Finally, it's important to continue monitoring the tree to quickly detect any signs of winter disease and intervene if necessary.
Conclusion
Growing a cherry plum tree in your garden requires patience, but the results are rewarding. By choosing the right variety suited to your region and following the proper steps for soil preparation, planting, and maintenance, you encourage healthy growth and abundant production. Disease prevention and pest control help protect your trees throughout the year. Careful harvesting and proper storage guarantee quality fruit. Finally, post-harvest care prepares the cherry plum tree for the following season, ensuring the longevity and success of your orchard.
FAQ
How do I choose the best cherry plum variety for my garden?
To choose the best variety, consider the climate, the size of the tree, and its resistance to local diseases. Varieties like Reine-Claude d'Oullins or Bigarreau Burlat are popular in France. It is also advisable to combine several varieties to improve pollination and obtain a longer harvest.
When and how to plant a cherry plum tree?
Planting is best done in autumn or early spring before new growth begins. Dig a wide hole, spread out the roots, and fill it with a mixture of soil and compost. Water generously after planting and create a shallow basin around the base of the plant to facilitate water infiltration.
How to care for a cherry plum tree on a daily basis?
Maintenance involves regular watering, especially in summer, and applying mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture. Formative and maintenance pruning are essential to open up the canopy and remove dead wood. Regular weeding limits competition for nutrients and reduces the risk of disease.
What are the most common diseases of cherry plum trees and how can they be prevented?
Common diseases include brown rot, scab, and plum leaf curl. To prevent them, keep the soil clean, remove fallen leaves and fruit, and prune regularly to improve air circulation. Using resistant varieties and adhering to planting times also reduces the risk of infection.
How to harvest and preserve cherries from a cherry plum tree?
Cherries are ripe when their color is uniform and the fruit detaches easily from the tree. Harvesting is best done by hand, leaving the stem attached, to preserve quality. After picking, store the fruit in the refrigerator or prepare it for freezing to extend its shelf life.
