You may order for November 2012 delivery.
Dwarf Morello, rootstock Gisela 5, self-fertile. 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.
Although too sour to eat raw, this is the Bramley of the cherry world. Enormous and reliable crops of big red fruits. Particularly useful for north facing spaces as long as there is reasonable light as it is very hardy.
We think that the smallest container or planter you should use is 45cm in diameter and depth to start off with and then re-pot in a couple of years to about 50cm. 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 Morello cherry 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.
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. This variety is suitable for colder areas and is more resistant to frost.
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). The Dwarf Morello cherry tree is self fertile.
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.
Be careful of birds stealing the fruits, so some netting would be useful once the berries start to appear. It can be unsightly, but you do not need it for the whole year.
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.