Bing cherries are one of the most popular sweet cherry varieties, cherished for their deep red color, juicy texture, and rich flavor. Whether you’re a backyard gardener or aspiring orchardist, planting a Bing cherry tree correctly is the first step toward a successful harvest. One innovative and highly effective technique for planting cherry trees is the woodchips method, which improves soil health, retains moisture, and encourages strong root development.
Inspired by the video “Planting Bing Cherry Tree Using Woodchips Method,” this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planting Bing cherries using woodchips, from site selection and soil preparation to aftercare and maintenance.
Why Choose the Woodchips Method?
The woodchips method is a mulching and soil-building technique that benefits young trees in several ways:
- Moisture Retention: Woodchips help maintain soil moisture by reducing evaporation, ensuring your cherry tree gets the water it needs.
- Soil Health: As woodchips decompose, they add organic matter to the soil, improving fertility and structure.
- Weed Suppression: A thick layer of woodchips prevents weeds from competing with the young tree for nutrients and water.
- Temperature Regulation: Woodchips keep the soil cooler in summer and warmer in winter, reducing stress on roots.
- Pest Deterrent: Some pests are less likely to thrive in mulched areas compared to bare soil.
This method mimics natural forest floor conditions, providing an ideal environment for cherry trees to establish strong roots and thrive.
Step 1: Selecting the Right Site for Your Bing Cherry Tree
Before planting, choose a location that provides the right conditions for cherry trees:
Sunlight
- Bing cherries require full sun, at least 6–8 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- More sunlight leads to better fruit color, higher sugar content, and more vigorous growth.
Soil Requirements
- Well-draining soil is critical. Bing cherries do not tolerate waterlogged roots.
- A slightly sandy loam or loamy soil enriched with organic matter works best.
- Soil pH should ideally be 6.0–7.0.
Spacing Considerations
- Standard spacing: 18–25 feet apart for full-size trees, 12–15 feet for dwarf varieties.
- Proper spacing ensures good air circulation, reducing the risk of fungal diseases.
Step 2: Preparing the Planting Hole
Proper planting starts with the right hole preparation:
- Dig a Hole: Make it about 2–3 times wider than the root ball of your tree and the same depth as the root system.
- Loosen the Soil: Break up compacted soil at the bottom and sides to allow roots to penetrate easily.
- Amend the Soil: Mix in compost or aged manure to provide nutrients and improve soil structure. Avoid excessive fertilizer, as young roots are sensitive to high nitrogen.
Optional Pre-Treatment
- Soak the root ball or bare roots in water for a few hours before planting to hydrate the tree.
Step 3: Positioning the Bing Cherry Tree
Correct placement is crucial for strong growth:
- Place the tree in the center of the hole, spreading the roots evenly.
- Ensure the root flare (where the roots meet the trunk) is slightly above soil level. Planting too deep can cause rot, while planting too shallow may dry out roots.
- Backfill the hole with soil gently, removing air pockets by lightly pressing around the roots.
Step 4: Applying the Woodchips Method
This is the signature step that differentiates this planting method:
Materials Needed:
- A generous amount of woodchips, shredded bark, or small branches.
- Optional: compost or organic matter mixed in for additional nutrients.
Steps:
- Create a Mulch Ring: Form a 2–3 foot radius ring around the tree base, leaving a 4–6 inch gap from the trunk to avoid moisture contact that could cause rot.
- Layer Woodchips: Apply 3–4 inches thick of woodchips over the ring.
- Moisturize: Water the tree thoroughly after applying woodchips to settle them and provide moisture to the roots.
Benefits of This Method:
- Keeps soil consistently moist for root development.
- Encourages beneficial soil organisms like earthworms and mycorrhizal fungi.
- Gradually decomposes to feed the soil naturally.
Step 5: Watering and Aftercare
Watering and proper care are essential in the first year:
Watering
- Frequency: Water deeply 2–3 times per week during the first few months.
- Amount: Ensure the top 6–12 inches of soil remain moist but not waterlogged.
- Adjust Seasonally: Reduce watering in cooler months or after heavy rain.
Fertilizing
- Avoid heavy fertilization immediately. Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer after 4–6 weeks to encourage root growth.
- Organic fertilizers like compost tea or seaweed extract can support early development.
Monitoring Growth
- Watch for leaf yellowing or drooping, which may indicate water or nutrient stress.
- Remove any weeds that appear in the mulch ring promptly.
Step 6: Supporting Young Trees
Young Bing cherry trees benefit from extra support:
- Staking: Stake the tree with a soft tie to prevent wind damage.
- Protection: Use tree guards to protect from pests like rabbits or deer.
- Pruning: In the first year, prune only damaged or crossing branches. Major pruning should wait until the second or third year.
Step 7: Long-Term Benefits of the Woodchips Method
The woodchips method isn’t just for planting — it continues to benefit your tree as it matures:
- Enhanced Soil Fertility: Decomposing woodchips provide slow-release nutrients, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers.
- Reduced Maintenance: Less frequent watering and weeding.
- Healthier Trees: Stronger root systems lead to better growth and higher fruit yields.
- Eco-Friendly: Using organic material is sustainable and improves soil ecology over time.
Step 8: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the woodchips method, issues can arise:
- Root Rot: Avoid water pooling around the base. Keep woodchips 4–6 inches away from the trunk.
- Pests: Aphids, cherry fruit flies, and birds may target the tree. Use netting or organic pest control as needed.
- Nutrient Deficiency: Leaf yellowing may indicate nitrogen or iron deficiency; treat with organic amendments or slow-release fertilizers.
Step 9: Preparing for Fruit Production
Bing cherries generally begin fruiting 2–4 years after planting depending on the rootstock and growing conditions.
Encouraging Flowering and Fruit Set:
- Prune to maintain an open canopy for sunlight penetration.
- Ensure consistent watering and balanced nutrition.
- Protect flowers from late frosts with frost cloth if necessary.
The woodchips method helps maintain a healthy root system, supporting strong tree vigor and maximizing fruit production when the tree reaches maturity.
Bonus Tips for Backyard Cherry Orchards
- Companion Planting: Plant nitrogen-fixing plants like clover nearby to enrich soil naturally.
- Pollination: Although Bing cherries are self-fertile, planting another sweet cherry variety nearby can improve yield.
- Seasonal Mulching: Refresh the woodchips layer annually to maintain moisture and soil health.
- Monitoring: Keep an eye on tree health, particularly after extreme weather events.
Final Thoughts
Planting a Bing cherry tree using the woodchips method is a simple yet highly effective strategy for establishing a strong, healthy tree. By improving soil health, conserving moisture, and reducing competition from weeds, woodchips give your cherry tree the best possible start in life.
Key takeaways:
- Choose a sunny, well-draining location.
- Prepare a wide, loose planting hole and correctly position the root flare.
- Apply a thick layer of woodchips around the base while keeping the trunk clear.
- Water consistently, fertilize lightly, and provide support for young trees.
- Monitor growth and troubleshoot problems early.
With patience and consistent care, your Bing cherry tree will grow into a vibrant, productive tree that produces sweet, juicy cherries for years to come. By following the woodchips method, you’re not just planting a tree — you’re cultivating a healthy ecosystem that supports sustainable growth and abundant harvests.
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