Out of stock for Spring 2012. You may order for Autumn 2012 delivery.
Dwarf Sweetheart Cherry, rootstock Gisela 5, self-fertile, bare root. This is a maiden tree which means that it has a strong 'leader' (central branch/trunk) which grows up through the centre of the young tree.
The Sweetheart Cherry tree is a new variety of cherry tree that is self-fertile. The fruits produced remain crunchy when they are picked and eaten. This tree resists cracking, and will ripen later than other varieties. This tree is fast growing in popularity, especially because no pollinator is required to produce fruit. The tree can easily be used in a location where there is only room for one tree, or only one is desired. Sweetheart cherries are the last to ripen in the season, and their unique taste is a wonderful finale for the summer.
Think about good drainage (pot feet for example) for the winter as fruit trees in containers could get soggy, but just as important think about some form of water conservation for the summer. Dwarf fruit trees need regular watering, so things like pebbles over mulch or newspaper are a good way of keeping the water in the planter and avoiding evaporation.
Where to place your tree?
Dwarf fruit trees will always grow and crop better in the ground because they can access more water and nutrients. However, with attention you can grow and crop a very successful and satisfying tree. Once mature your Dwarf Cherry Sweetheart tree will be: 1.3-1.8m tall with a spread of 1.2-1.5m (4-5ft), so you'll need to think about the shade this will cast and also to make sure that you leave enough space for the branches to grow well. If you are limited in spread, you might want to consider creating a cordon or espalier (click here for more info on this). With these methods you train the tree into specific shapes by reducing the number of branches. Full sun and sheltered if possible, but this tree is happy in colder locations.
How to make sure you have fruit
In the first instance treat your tree well and follow the instructions available on the card or online. In the first growing season rub the fruit off, it is heart breaking, but it will allow the tree to keep the energy it would have used and will make it both stronger and more likely to give good crops in subsequent years.
Be wary of birds, you might want to consider some netting once the berries appear. It can be unsightly but you'll only need it while the berries are on the tree.
Pollination, is important but can get overly complicated. In most suburban areas there will be enough pollen in the air due to the proximity of other gardens. It is not always necessary to have pollinators if the bees and other pollinating insects are generous with their visits (see herbs and flowers for colourful edible plants to attract them).
It is better not to plant around the base of the tree as it does not like the competition, you could however use pot toppers, coloured gravel or plant herbs in pots and sink into the compost around the tree if you'd like to dress it.
All of our trees are grown in the UK (Midlands) to the highest standards, and extra advice is always available if you'd like it.
Image is for illustration only.