Choose a warm, sheltered location that isn’t prone to late frosts, as these can damage the flowers, the RHS says. A sheltered site will aid pollination too, as insects will have easier access to the flowers. RHS Sweet cherries like a sunny spot, such as against a south- or south-west-facing wall, the RHS says, while acid cherries will tolerate some shade, so are suitable for a north-facing wall. RHS
Cherries grow particularly well in southern and central England, the RHS says. RHS All cherries prefer deep, fertile, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic, with an ideal pH of 6.5–6.7, the same page says. They grow less well in shallow or sandy soil. Poorly drained conditions can cause the roots to rot. RHS
Cherries grow well in fertile soil that doesn’t get waterlogged or dry out for long spells, the same guide says. RHS
Planting is best done while the trees are dormant, between November and March, the RHS says. RHS Bare-root trees are only available while dormant, from late autumn to early spring, usually from specialist suppliers, the RHS says. Container-grown trees are available all year round. RHS
If planting in a lawn, the RHS says, remove a circle of grass at least 1m (3¼ft) in diameter, so the tree’s roots don’t have to compete with the grass for water. RHS If your tree is going to be trained against a wall, the RHS says, plant it at least 25–35cm (10–14in) away from the wall. RHS
A simplified year: plant while dormant, between November and March; blossom early, and at risk from late frost; harvest from early summer; prune in late July or August.Drawing: our own, simplified and not to scale
Water, mulch and frost
Established cherry trees in open ground shouldn’t need watering, the RHS says. Young cherry trees and trees grown in pots will need some additional watering throughout the growing season. RHS Newly planted cherry trees should be watered during dry spells for at least the first year, the RHS says. Trees in containers need a steady supply of moisture, but should never be left standing in water, especially in winter, as roots in saturated compost can rot. RHS
Fan-trained cherry trees may require some additional watering if they’re in a rain-shadow, where the wall or fence reduces the amount of rainfall they receive, the RHS says. RHS Be careful not to overwater in summer, the RHS says — too much watering or very wet weather can cause ripe fruits to split. RHS
Mulching around cherry trees in late winter or spring will improve your soil, help to retain moisture and suppress weeds, the RHS says. Trees growing in regularly mulched soil shouldn’t need any additional feeding. RHS
Cherry blossom is susceptible to frost damage, which can reduce the crop, the RHS says. If the tree is small enough, cover it to protect the blossom overnight if frost is forecast, then remove the cover during the day so pollinating insects can reach the flowers. RHS Potted trees can also be moved into a greenhouse, porch or other sheltered location to avoid frosts when in blossom, the same page says. RHS