Cherry trees are one of the most rewarding fruit trees a homeowner can plant. Whether grown for sweet cherries, tart cherries, fresh eating, baking, or ornamental spring blooms, cherry trees offer beauty and productivity in one package. While cherries are known for their cold hardiness, planting them at the right time is essential for healthy root establishment, strong growth, and long-term fruit production.

The best time to plant cherry trees depends on your state’s climate, soil temperature, frost timing, and seasonal weather patterns. Cherry trees are deciduous and rely heavily on early root development during their first year. Planting at the wrong time can slow growth, increase stress, and delay fruiting. Understanding when to plant cherry trees in your state gives your tree the best possible start.

Why Planting Time Matters for Cherry Trees

Cherry trees go dormant during the winter months, storing energy in their roots. Planting during dormancy or early spring allows the tree to focus on root growth rather than supporting leaves, flowers, or fruit. This significantly reduces transplant shock and improves survival.

Planting cherry trees at the correct time helps ensure:

• Stronger and deeper root establishment
• Reduced transplant stress
• Improved cold tolerance
• Better drought resistance in summer
• Earlier and more consistent fruit production

Because cherry trees bloom early in spring, planting timing also plays a role in how well they tolerate late frosts and seasonal temperature swings.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in Northern States

States: Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, Wyoming, Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire

Best Planting Time: Late April through May

In northern states with long winters and late springs, cherry trees should only be planted after the soil has fully thawed and the risk of hard freezes has passed. Late April through May is ideal. Planting earlier can expose young roots to cold, saturated soil that slows establishment.

Fall planting is generally not recommended in these regions due to short growing seasons and early winter arrival.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in the Northeast & Mid-Atlantic

States: New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Delaware, Maryland

Best Planting Time: Late March through April

These regions offer excellent conditions for cherry trees when planted in early spring. Cooler temperatures and steady rainfall help roots establish before summer heat arrives. Early spring planting provides a full growing season for the tree to settle in.

Fall planting may work in some Mid-Atlantic areas, but spring remains the most reliable option for consistent success.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in the Southeast

States: Georgia, Alabama, Mississippi, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, Arkansas

Best Planting Time: December through February

The Southeast offers a long dormant planting window for cherry trees. Mild winters allow planting throughout the winter months. Winter planting gives roots time to establish before spring growth begins, resulting in stronger trees and less stress.

Late spring planting is discouraged, as rising temperatures can stress young cherry trees before their roots are fully established.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in Texas, Oklahoma & the Gulf States

States: Texas, Oklahoma, Louisiana, Florida

Best Planting Time: December through February

These regions warm quickly in spring, making winter planting ideal. Establishing roots early helps cherry trees handle summer heat and unpredictable weather. Selecting cherry varieties suited to lower chill hours is important in southern climates.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in the Midwest

States: Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kentucky, Kansas, Nebraska

Best Planting Time: March through April

The Midwest experiences variable spring weather, so timing is important. Cherry trees should be planted once soil temperatures rise and extended freezes are unlikely. Early spring planting allows roots to establish before hot summer weather arrives.

Best Time to Plant Cherry Trees in the Upper South & Appalachian Regions

States: Virginia, West Virginia, Eastern Kentucky, Eastern Tennessee

Best Planting Time: February through April

These regions offer moderate winters and reliable rainfall, making them well suited for cherry trees. Planting in late winter or early spring provides excellent results and supports strong early growth.

General Rule of Thumb for All States

If you are unsure about the exact planting time in your area, follow this simple guideline:

Plant cherry trees while they are dormant or just before spring growth begins.

This timing minimizes stress and allows roots to establish before the tree begins active growth.

Planting Tips for Cherry Trees

Sunlight

Cherry trees require full sun for best growth and fruit production. Choose a site with at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.

Soil

Well-draining soil is essential. Cherry trees do not tolerate standing water and prefer slightly acidic to neutral soil.

Spacing

Space cherry trees 15–20 feet apart depending on variety and rootstock to allow proper airflow and canopy development.

Watering

Water thoroughly after planting and maintain consistent moisture during the first growing season.

Pollination

Many cherry varieties require cross-pollination. Planting compatible varieties together improves fruit set and yield.

Why Starting With Quality Cherry Trees Matters

Cherry trees can produce fruit for decades when planted and cared for correctly. Starting with healthy, vigorous trees leads to faster establishment, fewer problems, and earlier fruit production. Quality trees adapt better to transplanting and grow more consistently over time.

Why Customers Choose Ty Ty Nursery to Buy Cherry Trees

• Large selection of cherry trees for sale
• Best prices without sacrificing plant quality
• Fastest in-season shipping — plant in days the Ty Ty way
• Industry-leading guarantees included free
• Certified Google Quality Store: View Reviews
• Nearly 50 years in business with over 10 million plants shipped
• Tens of thousands of 5-star reviews: Read Customer Reviews
• Live plant experts located in Ty Ty, GA — call 888-758-2252
• Convenience of shopping online and having cherry trees delivered directly to your door

When you are ready to buy cherry trees online, choosing an experienced nursery helps ensure success from planting day forward.