This tutorial of how to prepare cherry pits for planting and germination is a homesteaders secret to a growing an orchard.
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In nature, fruit is either eaten or decayed to release the seed. Since harvest time is normally in Fall, pits and seeds have evolved to overwinter in a dormant state and then come out of it to bloom in Spring. For some plants, it’s best to simulate the same freezing and drying cycle to start germination.
One of the fruits that are relatively easy to grow but need this preparation stage is the cherry. Cherry pits from store bought cherries may or may not produce the same type as the fruit, but they can usually be started for growing in the same way as any cherry tree. To simulate nature, wash the remaining fruits from the pit and take a look at them. Round smooth pits will produce the best sprouts.
Let them dry then store them in any airtight container, pop them in the freezer to trick them into believing it’s winter, and then plant in common topsoil. They will need a few weeks frozen.
The process of freezing seeds for germination in the home garden is called stratification. Apples, pears and peaches also require the chilling period to be ready for home garden planting. These fruits when sold in the US are a hybrid of two plants.
If you are planting a seed from a store-bought fruit, there is a possibility it won’t produce the same fruit as the one it came from. This is due to the fact that most fruit trees for produce sales are grafted. The offspring seed is a hybrid, with genes from both plants.
Either way, planting a cherry tree from seed is rewarding and a great learning experience for kids. Who knows, too, you may just get an orchard started from a batch of store bought cherries.
Things You Will Need:
Cherry pits
Water
Airtight container
Seed-starting flats
Starter soil
Refrigerator
Click here to read about how to prepare cherry pits for planting and germination:
http://homeguides.sfgate.com/prepare-cherry-pits-planting-germination-68796.html
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