
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
180 inches
Width
180 inches
Light
Full Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Moderate
Lifespan
Productive for 15-20 years
Native To
Europe and southwest Asia
Toxicity
Stems, leaves, and seeds are toxic if ingested
The Story
Plant Bio
Prunus cerasus, or sour cherry, is a small deciduous tree cultivated for its tart fruit, which is ideal for pies, preserves, and juices. It produces a cloud of white blossoms in spring. 'Montmorency' is the most popular sour cherry variety in North America, prized for its large, bright red fruit with firm yellow flesh and clear juice. It is reliably self-pollinating and highly productive.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
Shipping costs Year-round shipping Free shipping
Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with full sun, good air circulation, and well-drained soil.
- Dig a hole large enough to accommodate the roots without bending them.
- Create a small mound in the center and spread roots over it.
- Position the tree so the graft union is 2-3 inches above the final soil line.
- Backfill with native soil, gently tamping to remove air pockets.
- Water deeply and mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk.
Pro Tip
Paint the lower trunk with white latex paint diluted with water to prevent sunscald and borer damage, especially on young trees.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide consistent water, especially during fruit development.
- Prune annually to maintain an open, vase-like shape for light and air.
- Monitor for pests and diseases and act promptly.
- Protect ripening fruit from birds with netting.
Don't
- Do not plant in a low-lying frost pocket.
- Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which causes weak growth.
- Do not allow grass or weeds to compete with the tree's base.
- Never prune in the fall, as it encourages tender new growth.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fertilize | ||||||||||||
| Harvest | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spray |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Montmorency Cherry questions
What zones can Montmorency Cherry grow in?
Montmorency Cherry is hardy in USDA Zones 4–7. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Montmorency Cherry deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Montmorency Cherry, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Montmorency Cherry bloom?
Montmorency Cherry typically blooms in mid-spring through late spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Montmorency Cherry need full sun?
Montmorency Cherry does best in full sun (6+ hours).
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