Montmorency Cherry Tree β Tart Cherries for Pies, Jams, and More ππ³
The Montmorency Cherry Tree is one of the most popular varieties for home orchards, known for its tart cherries that are perfect for a wide range of culinary uses. As the best-known sour cherry variety, Montmorency cherries are ideal for making pies, jams, and preserves. Growing your own cherries provides the benefit of chemical-free fruit and saves you money by reducing your reliance on store-bought produce. Whether youβre baking fresh pies, making a savory sauce, or enjoying the fruit in drinks, the Montmorency cherry tree is a must-have for any backyard gardener or small orchard. This tree not only offers delicious fruit, but it also brings beauty to your garden with its stunning white blooms in the spring.
USDA Growing Zones and Chill Hours
- Thrives in USDA Zones 5-8
- Requires 800-900 chill hours, perfect for regions with cold winters βοΈ
Pollination & Fruit Production
- Pollination: Montmorency cherries are self-pollinating, meaning you donβt need another tree for fruit production. However, planting additional trees can improve fruit quality and yield.
- Recommended Varieties: While self-pollinating, planting Montmorency alongside Bing or Tartarian varieties will help increase pollination and provide a larger harvest.
- Fruit Description: The Montmorency cherry is a bright red tart cherry that is smaller in size compared to sweet cherries but packs a punch with its sharp, tangy flavor.
- Taste: The cherries are known for their distinct tartness and juicy flesh, making them perfect for baking, canning, and making tart beverages.
- Ripening Time: The Montmorency cherries ripen in mid to late summer, typically around July, giving you an early season harvest of sour cherries.
How to Plant & Grow Montmorency Cherry Trees
- Sun Requirements π: Full sun, with at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily, is essential for strong growth and fruit production.
- Soil Requirements πΏ: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0) that is well-draining and rich in organic matter.
- Spacing π³: Space trees 10-15 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding.
- Mature Size π³: The Montmorency cherry tree typically grows to a mature height of 12-15 feet, making it an excellent choice for small orchards or backyard gardens.
Step-by-Step Planting Instructions
- 1οΈβ£ Prepare the Soil π§βπΎ: Choose a sunny location with rich, well-draining soil. Amend with compost to improve fertility and ensure healthy growth.
- 2οΈβ£ Dig a Hole π³οΈ: Dig a hole that is at least twice the size of the root ball to give the roots plenty of room to grow.
- 3οΈβ£ Position the Plant πΏ: Place the tree in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- 4οΈβ£ Backfill & Water π§: Fill the hole with soil, press it gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the roots in place.
- 5οΈβ£ Mulch Around the Base π±: Apply mulch or Weed Pro Weed Mats to retain moisture and keep weeds from competing for nutrients.
Ongoing Care & Maintenance
- Watering π§: Keep the soil consistently moist during the first year of planting, making sure the soil drains well. Once the tree is established, water deeply once a week during dry spells.
- Pruning βοΈ: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or damaged branches and to encourage better air circulation and sunlight penetration.
- Fertilizing π: Apply Nutra-Pro 1st Year Fertilizer Paks to support the treeβs initial growth. After the first year, use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to support fruit production.
- Protection π‘οΈ: Use Max Growth Tree Shelters to protect young trees from pests and extreme weather conditions π³π‘οΈ.
Ripening Time, Taste & Uses
- Ripens in mid to late summer, typically around July, for a tart and juicy harvest.
- Sweet, tart cherries π with a firm texture and juicy, tangy flavor, making them perfect for a wide range of culinary uses.
- Perfect for eating fresh, making cherry pies, jams, jellies, or using in savory dishes like cherry-glazed meats ππ―.
Delicious Recipes
Cherry Clafoutis ππ°
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Montmorency cherries (pitted and halved)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 cup flour
- 1 cup milk
- 3 eggs
Instructions:
- 1οΈβ£ Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C) π₯.
- 2οΈβ£ Spread the cherries in a greased baking dish and sprinkle with sugar π.
- 3οΈβ£ In a bowl, whisk together flour, milk, and eggs, then pour over the cherries.
- 4οΈβ£ Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until set and golden brown ππ°.
Cherry Sauce ππ―
Ingredients:
- 2 cups Montmorency cherries (pitted and chopped)
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice π
Instructions:
- 1οΈβ£ Combine cherries, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a saucepan ππ.
- 2οΈβ£ Simmer over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally until it thickens.
- 3οΈβ£ Pour over pancakes, waffles, or use as a topping for ice cream π―π.
Cherry Sorbet ππ§
Ingredients:
- 6 cups Montmorency cherries (pitted and frozen)
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice π
- 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
- 1οΈβ£ Blend cherries, sugar, lemon juice, and water until smooth ππ.
- 2οΈβ£ Pour into a shallow pan and freeze for 4-5 hours until firm.
- 3οΈβ£ Scoop into bowls and serve as a refreshing summer dessert π§π.
Essential Products for Maximum Growth
- β
Max Growth Tree Shelters β Protects young trees from pests and extreme weather π³π‘οΈ.
- β
Nutra-Pro 1st Year Fertilizer Paks β Provides essential nutrients for healthy growth and fruit production πΏ.
- β
Soil Moist Transplant Mix β Helps retain moisture and reduce transplant shock π§.
- β
Weed Pro Weed Mats β Prevents weed growth and conserves moisture π±.
Why Buy from Ty Ty Plant Nursery, LLC?
- β
Large Selection π³ β Choose from a wide variety of healthy, high-quality plants
- β
Best Prices π·οΈ β High-quality plants at unbeatable prices
- β
Fastest Shipping π β Quick and reliable shipping
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Free One-Year Plantsurance Guarantee π‘οΈ β Store credit if your plant doesnβt survive its first year
πΏ Start growing your own cherries today! Order from Ty Ty Plant Nursery and enjoy a sweet harvest year after year! π³π
Delivery Time: Deciduous Fruit Trees ordered during their current shipping season (usually December through May) are shipped dormant within ten days of the date of order, weather dependent. The actual delivery time will usually be within four to seven days following the date of shipping by Ty Ty Plant Nursery. Delivery time can not be guaranteed, if a package needs to arrive prior to a specific date please note in the comment section of the order or contact Ty Ty Nursery by telephone during normal business hours.
Shipping Method: UPS Ground and Motor Freight if the proper arrangements have been made by the customer prior to shipping. Shipping costs do apply on Motor Freight shipments, not covered by any sales promotions.
*1 Year Free Plantsurance Policy is void on any shipment outside of recommended zones, and/or when the shipping is authorized by the customer during below freezing temperatures.
If plants are listed by gallon size the plant will be removed from container and have the majority of the dirt removed to allow for the best shipping.
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