Rainier cherry trees are known for their delicious fruit and attractive appearance. If you’re considering planting one, it’s important to know how big they get to ensure you have enough space and can properly care for the tree. Here’s what you need to know about the size and growth of Rainier cherry trees.
Mature Height and Width
Rainier cherry trees typically reach a mature height of 20 to 30 feet. Their spread is also notable, averaging 15 to 25 feet, making them a striking addition to any landscape. However, the size can vary based on the rootstock used. For example, sweet cherries on Colt rootstock can grow to 12-15 feet in height.
Factors Affecting Size
Several factors can influence the size of a Rainier cherry tree:
- Rootstock: The rootstock determines the ultimate size of the tree. Semi-dwarf rootstocks like Colt result in smaller trees compared to standard rootstocks.
- Pruning: Regular pruning can help maintain the tree at a manageable size and encourage healthy growth.
- Environmental Conditions: Adequate sunlight, well-drained soil, and proper watering contribute to optimal growth.
- Pollination: Rainier cherry trees need another sweet cherry variety nearby for pollination to produce fruit.
Different Sizes and Options
When purchasing a Rainier cherry tree, you may encounter different size options:
- Standard Trees: These trees grow to the typical mature height of 20 to 30 feet.
- Semi-Dwarf Trees: Grafted onto semi-dwarf rootstock, these trees reach a height of 12 to 18 feet, making them suitable for smaller spaces.
- Bare-Root Trees: Shipped without soil around their roots and are planted when dormant. These require more initial care.
- Potted Trees: These come with their roots packed in soil, giving them a more established appearance with leaves and foliage.
How to Plant and Care for Your Rainier Cherry Tree
To ensure your Rainier cherry tree thrives, consider these planting and care tips:
- Planting: Choose a location with full sun, receiving at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight daily, and well-drained soil. Dig a hole three times the width of the root ball and just as deep. Place the tree, backfill the soil, tamp down, and water to settle the roots. Add a layer of mulch around the surrounding soil to preserve moisture.
- Watering: During the growing season, ensure the tree receives at least an inch of rain every 10 days. If it’s hot and dry, provide additional water using a slow-trickling garden hose at the base of the tree.
- Pruning: Prune the tree in winter, a year after planting. Shape the tree to encourage horizontal branch growth with space between branches. Remove any weak or drooping branches annually.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring and mid-summer using a nitrogen fertilizer twice annually, applying two weeks after planting and four weeks after the first application. Use a complete fertilizer such as 10-10-10, following the package directions. Ensure the fertilizer is 6 to 8 inches away from the trunk around the tree.
- Pollination: Since Rainier cherry trees are not self-pollinating, plant another variety like Bing or Black Tartarian Cherry Trees nearby to ensure fruit production.
- Pests & Diseases: Apply a fall and winter copper spray to help prevent damage from bacterial canker. Netting can also prevent birds from eating the cherries.
Ideal Growing Conditions
Rainier cherry trees grow best in USDA Zones 4-9. They are adaptable to various soil types but thrive in well-drained soil. These trees also require proper spacing to allow maximum sun exposure for individual branches, which ensures fully developed, sweet, ripe fruit at harvest time.
Harvesting
Rainier cherries typically produce fruit in 3 to 5 years, with a bloom period in early April. The fruit is ready to harvest from late June through early July.
Conclusion
Understanding the mature size of Rainier cherry trees, along with the factors that influence their growth, will help you make informed decisions about planting and care. With proper planting, care, and the right growing conditions, you can enjoy the delicious fruit of your Rainier cherry tree for years to come.