How to Grow Rainier Cherries: A Guide to Cultivating Delicious and Sweet Cherries

If you're a fan of cherries, then surely you've heard of Rainier cherries. These cherries are a hybrid variety that is known for its deliciously sweet and tangy taste. While they can be found in many grocery stores during their peak season, there's nothing quite like picking and enjoying them fresh from your own garden.

Choosing the Right Location

The first step in growing Rainier cherries is choosing the right location. Cherry trees thrive in full sunlight, so it's important to pick a spot in your garden that gets at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. The soil should also have good drainage as cherry trees don't do well in waterlogged soil.

It's also important to choose a location with enough space for your tree to grow. Rainier cherry trees can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, so make sure to plant them at least 15 feet apart from other trees or structures.

Preparing the Soil

Once you've chosen the right location, it's time to prepare the soil. Start by digging a hole that's twice the size of the root ball. Mix the soil you dug out with compost or aged manure to improve the soil quality and add nutrients. Before planting the tree, create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole to help with drainage.

When planting the tree, make sure the graft union (where the roots meet the trunk) is at least two inches above the soil line. This will help prevent root rot and other diseases from affecting your tree.

Caring for Your Tree

After planting your Rainier cherry tree, it's important to care for it properly to ensure it grows healthy and produces fruit. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

You'll also need to fertilize your tree regularly to provide the necessary nutrients it needs to grow and produce fruit. Use a balanced fertilizer with equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and apply it once in the spring and again in the fall.

Protecting Your Tree from Pests and Diseases

Rainier cherry trees are susceptible to pests and diseases just like any other fruit tree. Some common pests include aphids, mites, and cherry fruit flies. You can control these pests using insecticidal soaps or neem oil.

Diseases such as brown rot and powdery mildew can also affect your tree. To prevent this, make sure to keep the area around the tree clean and free of fallen leaves and fruit. You can also use fungicides to protect your tree against these diseases.

Harvesting Your Cherries

Once your Rainier cherry tree begins to produce fruit, it's time to harvest. Cherries should be picked when they are fully mature and firm to the touch. They will also have a yellowish-red color with a slight blush. If the cherries are ripe, they should easily come off the stem when gently twisted.

To prevent birds from stealing your cherries, cover your tree with bird netting during the peak harvest season. This will protect your fruit while still allowing sunlight and rain to reach the tree.

A Rainier cherry tree in bloom.

Growing Rainier cherries isn't difficult as long as you have the right location, soil, and care. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can enjoy delicious, sweet cherries straight from your own garden.

Rainier cherries, Fruit trees, Gardening tips, Cherry varieties