Tropical Style

Black Tartarian Dwarf Cherry Tree Requirements

May 14, 2022

Not only will the “Black Tartarian” dwarf cherry tree (Prunus avium “Black Tartarian”) provide your yard with showy, fragrant, spring flowers, but with an abundant crop of dark, sweet cherries. With a mature height of 12 to 15 feet, this dwarf tree will prosper when provided with its particular cultural requirements.

Climate

To emerge from dormancy and set fruit, “Black Tartarian” dwarf cherries require at least 700 chill hours at temperatures below 45 degrees Fahrenheit. They’re hardy at U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 8, in which those chill hours will happen in November through February. Too much humidity promotes the growth of moulds and other fungal diseases, therefore it’s best to plant those cherries in a slightly unsheltered, elevated area with adequate air circulation.

Light and Soil

“Black Tartarian” cherries thrive in full sun, needing at least six to eight hours every day. Sunlight has to be direct and bright, therefore positioning this dwarf variety out of the shadow of bigger buildings and trees is vital. Although they will grow in many distinct soils, these cherries prefer sandy-loam mixtures. The soil has to be loose, deep and quick draining to allow the moisture-sensitive origins to get enough oxygen. A soil pH of 6.2 to 6.8 is greatest.

Water and Fertilizer

Much like other sweet cherry varieties, “Black Tartarian” is intolerant of drought but cannot withstand soggy soils. They prosper in evenly moist soils that dry out to a thickness of 3 to 4 inches between waterings. Supplemental watering during periods of little to no rain will stop heat stress and ensure evenly moist soils. An yearly application of 2 1/2 pounds of 10-10-10 nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium slow-release granular fertilizer will provide the tree with nutrients. Broadcast the fertilizer at a 12-inch-wide ring under the tree’s canopy, 12 inches from the back, to reduce fertilizer burn.

Maintenance

“Black Tartarian” cherry bark is sensitive to sunburn. Whitewash the back and exposed divisions in the spring to provide protection. A 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch spread around the tree will reduce soil moisture loss while inhibiting weed growth. Keep the mulch four to six inches away from the tree’s trunk to stop it from rotting. Remove competing leaders to foster the growth of a powerful, main leader. Improve and maintain the health of the tree from a year removing dead, broken, diseased, crossing or rubbing branches.

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