When it comes to enjoying the sweet, juicy goodness of fresh - picked cherries, no one wants an unpleasant surprise. A veteran cherry grower has generously shared some invaluable tricks that can make your cherry - picking and growing experiences trouble - free. Let's dive into the world of cherries and discover what these secrets are.

First and foremost, understanding the right time to pick cherries is crucial. Cherries don't all ripen at the same time, even on the same tree. The veteran grower emphasizes that color is a key indicator. For most varieties, a deep, rich hue signals ripeness. For example, sweet cherries like Bing should have a nearly black - red color when they're ready to be plucked. Tart cherries, on the other hand, turn a bright red. But color isn't the only factor. You can also gently tug on the cherry. If it comes off easily with the stem intact, it's likely ripe. This is important because picking unripe cherries won't give you that delicious flavor, and over - ripe cherries can be mushy and prone to spoilage.

Now, let's talk about growing cherries. The location of your cherry tree is of utmost importance. Cherry trees thrive in areas with full sun exposure. They need at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day. This sunlight is essential for photosynthesis, which helps the tree produce energy and develop healthy fruits. The soil also plays a vital role. Well - drained soil is a must. Cherry trees don't like to have their roots sitting in water for long periods. If your soil has poor drainage, you can consider creating raised beds to plant your cherry trees. The pH level of the soil should be slightly acidic to neutral, around 6.0 to 7.0. You can test your soil and make adjustments by adding lime to raise the pH or sulfur to lower it.

Pruning is another aspect that the veteran grower highlights. Pruning helps in shaping the tree, improving air circulation, and promoting better fruit production. In the early years of a cherry tree's life, focus on creating a strong framework. Remove any weak or crossing branches. As the tree matures, you can do more selective pruning. For example, you can thin out some of the branches to allow more sunlight to reach the inner parts of the tree. This not only helps in fruit development but also reduces the risk of diseases.

When it comes to pests and diseases, prevention is better than cure. One of the common pests that attack cherry trees is the cherry fruit fly. To prevent an infestation, you can use sticky traps. Hang these traps in the tree during the fly's active season. Another pest is the aphid. You can control aphids by spraying a strong stream of water on the affected branches or using insecticidal soaps. As for diseases, brown rot is a major concern. To prevent brown rot, make sure there is good air circulation around the tree, and remove any infected fruits or branches immediately. Fungicides can also be used as a preventive measure, but it's important to follow the instructions carefully.

Watering is also a critical part of cherry tree care. Young cherry trees need regular watering to establish their root systems. Water deeply, but don't over - water. Once the tree is established, you can reduce the frequency of watering, but still make sure the soil doesn't dry out completely. During hot and dry periods, you may need to water more often. A layer of mulch around the base of the tree can help retain moisture and keep the soil temperature more stable.

Harvesting cherries can be a fun and rewarding activity. But it's important to handle the cherries gently. Use a pair of pruning shears or scissors to cut the stem, rather than pulling the cherry off. This helps prevent damage to the tree and the fruit. After picking, store the cherries in the refrigerator as soon as possible. They can last for several days in the fridge, but it's best to enjoy them as fresh as possible.

In conclusion, with these tips from a veteran cherry grower, you can avoid the unhappy surprises that often come with cherry - picking and growing. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, these tricks can help you have a bountiful harvest of delicious cherries year after year. So, go ahead and plant your cherry tree, follow these guidelines, and get ready to savor the sweet taste of success.