1. Planting: Select an area with well-drained soil and full sun (6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day). Once you've selected your location, dig a hole that's approximately a foot and a half deep and equally as wide for your tree. Place your Bing Cherry in the hole, tamp down the surrounding soil, and then water to settle the roots. Finally, spread a layer of mulch over the soil to encourage healthy growth and preserve moisture.
2. Watering: During the growing season, if your tree receives at least an inch of rain every 10 days, no additional irrigation is necessary. If the season is hot and dry, however, you may need to provide some additional water. The best way to water is by using a slow trickling garden hose and leaving it at the base of the tree for about 30 seconds - do this once a week. If you're not sure when to water, however, check the soil about 2 or 3 inches down with your index finger. If the soil is dry in this area, it's time to water.
3. Pruning: A year after planting your Bing, prune in the late winter, while it's still dormant. Shape the tree to encourage horizontal branch growth with space between branches, and prune once a year as necessary to remove weak, drooping branches.
4. Fertilizing: Fertilize in the spring and midsummer using nitrogen fertilizer, ensuring you apply 2 weeks after planting and 4 weeks after the first application. Use a complete fertilizer, like 10-10-10, and apply 6 to 8 inches away from the trunk.
BB Tip: Surround your Cherry Tree with a thin layer of mulch each spring to preserve moisture, and avoid organic fertilizers for best results.
