The growth of cherry trees is not random or directionless. The strength and direction of growth of the shoots are determined on the one hand by the tree's internal drive and on the other hand by external influences.
What affects the growth of a cherry tree?
The growth of cherry trees is influenced by factors such as light, temperature, soil, nutrients and pruning practices. The base determines the size and direction of growth of the tree, which can be adjusted through targeted pruning.
Fundamentals of growth
From the outside, the growth of a cherry tree is influenced by light, temperature, soil, nutrient supply and pruning measures. The internal growth stimulus is predetermined by the rootstock used (root part of the tree), which is responsible for how large the cherry tree becomes. The rootstocks can be strong, medium or slow growing. Accordingly, a distinction is made between
- Half-trunks
- High tribes and
- Bushes.
The shoot and crown growth dictated by the rootstock can be controlled by targeted training pruning. Although you won't be able to transform a standard tree into a bush by cutting it back, you can adapt the height and crown circumference of your cherry tree to the conditions of the existing garden space.
Slowing growth
Pruning the cherry trees after the harvest in August/September prevents the vigorous cherry tree from growing further. At the same time, this promotes the fertility of the tree. This measure makes sense for young, already very vigorous cherry trees.
Promoting growth
If you want to promote the growth of an old tree, you cut it in the winter months, from November to February. This causes the cherry to sprout very heavily in the coming growing season. This measure can be used to rejuvenate an aging cherry tree.
Tips & Tricks
According to a broadcast on n-tv Wissen a few years ago, a rapidly growing cherry tree puzzled Japanese scientists. The tree grew from a core that traveled in space with an International Space Station for around eight months. The core was then planted and the tree grew four meters tall within five years and then bore its first flowers.
