Cherry trees are among the earliest to bloom and fruit, which means they need a little attention just as winter fades. Whether you’re growing sweet or sour cherries, in-ground or in a container, a solid spring routine can lead to better blossoms, a healthier tree, and a tastier harvest. Here are the top 5 things to do to your cherry trees to get them ready for spring!

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1. Prune for Shape, Light, and Fruit Production ✂️

Late winter to early spring—before buds break—is the ideal time to prune cherry trees.

✅ Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches
✅ Thin out crowded areas to improve airflow and light penetration
✅ Focus on developing an open canopy with well-spaced branches
✅ For young trees, prune to encourage strong structure and future fruiting wood

Pruning helps prevent disease and directs the tree’s energy toward flower and fruit development.

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2. Clean Up the Base and Refresh Mulch 🍂

Good sanitation around the tree base helps keep disease and pests in check.

✅ Rake up and dispose of fallen leaves, twigs, or old fruit from last season
✅ Pull weeds that may harbor pests or compete for nutrients
✅ Apply a fresh 2–3 inch layer of mulch (wood chips or compost)
✅ Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot

Fresh mulch regulates soil temperature, retains moisture, and reduces weed growth.

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3. Feed Your Tree with the Right Fertilizer 🍽️

Cherry trees need the right nutrients in early spring to support flowering and fruiting.

✅ Apply a balanced fertilizer (like 10-10-10) just before bud break
✅ Use Nutra Pro Fertilize Packs for slow-release nutrition in pots
✅ Spread fertilizer around the drip line—not directly at the trunk
✅ Avoid high nitrogen levels that can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of fruit

A well-fed tree is a productive tree!

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4. Apply Dormant Spray (If Needed) 🛡️

If your tree has had pest or disease issues in the past, a preventative spray may help.

✅ Use dormant oil spray to control overwintering pests like aphids or scale
✅ Apply on a dry day when temps are above 40°F and before bud break
✅ Don’t spray once flowers begin to open to protect pollinators

This optional step is a great tool for disease prevention and a healthy start.

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5. Inspect Buds & Plan for Pollination 🌸🐝

Cherry trees bloom early and are often vulnerable to late frosts and poor pollination.

✅ Watch for swelling buds—flower buds are rounder and fatter than leaf buds
✅ Protect blooms from unexpected spring frosts using row covers or frost cloth
✅ Ensure you have a compatible pollinator if your tree is not self-fertile (sweet cherries often need a second tree)
✅ Attract pollinators with early-blooming companion plants nearby

Healthy flowers and successful pollination = more cherries come summer!

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Final Thoughts 🌞

Cherry trees are early risers in the fruit tree world, and with the right prep, you can enjoy a stunning bloom and a sweet harvest. Pruning, feeding, cleaning, and pollination prep now will help your tree produce its best fruit all season long.

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