How to grow sweet cherries Planting: Early spring, in well-
drained, fertile soil. Avoid southern or western exposures,
which would promote early blooming and put crops at risk from
spring frost damage. pH range: 6.2-6.8 Years until fruit
bearing: 7-10 Pollination: Many are not self-pollinating. For
those, plant at least two different sweet cherry varieties for
fruit production. Pruning: In late spring, after the trees have
flowered, when the size of the coming crop and placement of
fruit is apparent. Prune employing the method for apple and pear
trees but also cut the top off the central leader after the tree
has grown 4 or 5 inches in the first year. Thereafter, prune
only to remove watersprouts, crowded limbs and those that
threaten the vaselike shape of the tree, aiming to keep branches
with the widest crotch angles. This may not need to be done for
several years. Fertilizing: Apply 10-10-10 weekly in early
spring until fruit begins to form, and again right after
harvest. Harvest period: July. Netting may