{"product_id":"cherry-sweet-southern","title":"Cherry Sweet Southern","description":"\u003cstyle\u003e \/* This targets the table and the cells inside it *\/ table, td { border: 1px solid #444444; \/* Dark gray border *\/ border-collapse: collapse; \/* This merges the double lines into one clean line *\/ } \/* Adding some padding so the text isn't touching the borders *\/ td { padding: 10px; } \u003c\/style\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe \u003cstrong\u003eCherry Sweet Southern \u003c\/strong\u003e(often referred to as the \u003cstrong\u003eMinnie Royal\u003c\/strong\u003e or\u003cstrong\u003e Royal Lee\u003c\/strong\u003e pairing, as they are the primary \"Low-chill\" sweet cherries) is a breakthrough for warmer climates. Unlike traditional Bing cherries that require long, cold winters, these varieties are bred specifically to produce high- quality fruit in areas with mild winters. Sweet Southern cherries are perfectly suited for Texas gardens and warm climates. This variety produces abundant yields of sweet, dark cherries ideal for fresh eating, baking, and preserving. It is known for its vigorous growth, disease resistance, and manageable height, making harvesting convenient for harvesting. It's an excellent choice for home orchardists seeking reliable production and exceptional flavor as well curb appeal with its beautiful blossoms and foliage. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv align=\"left\" dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\n\u003ctable style=\"width: 100%; height: 576.062px;\"\u003e\n\u003ccolgroup\u003e \u003ccol style=\"width: 25.5162%;\" width=\"179\"\u003e \u003ccol style=\"width: 74.4838%;\" width=\"445\"\u003e \u003c\/colgroup\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 39.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 39.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eScientific Name\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 39.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003cem data-processed=\"true\" class=\"eujQNb\"\u003ePrunus avium \u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan class=\"eujQNb\"\u003e(Specific low-chill cultivars like 'Minnie Royal' or 'Royal Lee')\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 354.312px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 354.312px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFoliage: Deciduous\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 354.312px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLeaves: \u003c\/strong\u003eOvate and serrated. Deep green with a pointed tip and jagged edges. They provide a lush canopy and turn yellow or orange in late autumn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFlower: \u003c\/strong\u003eShowy white clusters. Small, five-petaled blossoms that appear in early spring. They are highly fragrant and a major draw for pollinators.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFruit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-sized and firm. Typically a deep, glossy red to maroon. They have a classic sweet-tart cherry flavor and a \"snappy\" skin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeeds:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem\u003eSingle hard stone\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e (pit).\u003c\/strong\u003e Centrally located, smooth, and light tan. The pit is relatively small compared to the amount of flesh.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eBark: \u003c\/strong\u003eSmooth and reddish-brown. Features prominent horizontal slits called lenticels. As the tree ages, the bark may become slightly fissured or papery.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 36.5938px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 36.5938px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMature Height\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 36.5938px;\"\u003e12-15 feet (semi-dwarf); 20-25 feet (standard)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMature Width (Spread)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003e6-15 feet (depending on pruning and spacing)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 35.5938px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5938px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Rate\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 35.5938px;\"\u003eFast-growing; can grow 1-2 feet per year under ideal conditions. \u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"ltr\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eUSDA Zone\/Chill Hours\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"height: 55.1875px;\"\u003eZone 7-10; 200 – 300 chill hours. Exceptionally low compared to the 700–1000 hours required by traditional cherries.\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePLANT CARE \u0026amp; CHARACTERISTICS\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eLight Requirements:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e \u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eFull sun.\u003c\/em\u003e Minimum of 6–8 hours of direct sunlight. Good light penetration is essential for fruit bud development and preventing fungal issues\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWater Requirements:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-index-in-node=\"0\" data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eModerate to High.\u003c\/em\u003e Requires deep, regular watering, especially during the first 3 years. Soil should remain moist but never waterlogged. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLike all cherry trees, \"Sweet Southern\" varieties are extremely intolerant of \"wet feet.\" They must be planted in well-drained soil or on a slight mound to prevent root rot.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrought Resistance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem\u003e Low. \u003c\/em\u003eLike most stone fruits, they have a relatively shallow root system. Prolonged dry spells will cause fruit drop and can lead to \"sunscald\" on the bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eSoil Type:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eWell-drained, loam. \u003c\/em\u003ePrefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with an ideal pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They thrive in sandy loam or loamy soils but are adaptable, provided the soil does not stay waterlogged or overly compacted. They are extremely sensitive to \"wet feet\" and heavy clay; planting on a slight mound is often recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe \"Mound\" Method:\u003c\/strong\u003e If your soil has any drainage issues, plant your cherry tree on a mound about \u003cstrong\u003e12–18 inches high\u003c\/strong\u003e and 3 feet wide. This ensures the \"crown\" of the tree stays dry, preventing the most common cause of death: root rot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMulching: \u003c\/strong\u003eA thick \u003cstrong\u003e3-inch layer\u003c\/strong\u003e of wood chips or straw around the base (but not touching the trunk) is vital in the South. It keeps the roots cool during 90°F+ days and maintains the consistent moisture these trees crave.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eDeer Resistance:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eLow.\u003c\/em\u003e Deer find the sweet, young foliage and developing fruit highly attractive. Protective fencing is usually necessary for young trees.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003ePest\/Disease Resistance:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cem\u003eModerate.\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003eGenerally resistant to many common cherry issues, but can be susceptible to \u003cstrong\u003eAphids, Bacterial Canker, \u003c\/strong\u003eor\u003cstrong\u003e Birds \u003c\/strong\u003eduring harvest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eBird Protection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Because these cherries ripen so early in the season, they are a primary target for local birds. Using \u003cstrong\u003ebird netting\u003c\/strong\u003e or reflective flash tape once the fruit starts turning red is highly effective for saving your harvest.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003ePollination:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eCross-Pollination Required. Most Southern varieties are\u003cem\u003e not self-fertile\u003c\/em\u003e. 'Minnie Royal' and 'Royal Lee' must be planted together to produce fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003eHarvest:\u003c\/span\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003eEarly Season. Typically ripens in \u003cem\u003eMay or June. \u003c\/em\u003eThis early harvest is an advantage, as the fruit matures before the most intense mid-summer heat hits.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHarvesting Tips\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSweet Southern cherries do not continue to ripen after being picked. For the best flavor, wait until the fruit is \u003cstrong\u003efirm but fully colored \u003c\/strong\u003e(deep red to maroon). Taste one or two first; if they are still tart, give the tree another 48 hours of sun.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Stem Test: \u003c\/strong\u003eA fresh Sweet Southern cherry should have a bright green, flexible stem. If the stem is brown, brittle, or shriveled, the fruit is nearing the end of its shelf life.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Skin Test: \u003c\/strong\u003eLook for a glossy, taut surface. If the skin looks dull or wrinkled, the cherry has lost its internal moisture and will likely be \"mealy\" rather than \"snappy.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYIELD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable data-path-to-node=\"3\" style=\"width: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTree Age\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYield Expectation\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Status\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,1,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYear 1\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,1,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e0 lbs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,1,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,1,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eEstablishment.\u003c\/b\u003e Focus is entirely on root development and structural branching. Remove any \"scout\" flowers to save the tree's energy.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,2,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYear 2\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,2,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e0 – 2 lbs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,2,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,2,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFirst Taste.\u003c\/b\u003e You may see a handful of cherries. The tree is still building the \"spurs\" (short fruiting stems) that will bear future crops.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,3,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYear 3\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,3,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e5 – 15 lbs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,3,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,3,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eAdolescence.\u003c\/b\u003e The canopy is filling out. If pollination conditions are good (bees are active), you will see a noticeable jump in fruit count.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,4,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYear 4 – 5\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,4,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e20 – 40 lbs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,4,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,4,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYoung Maturity.\u003c\/b\u003e The tree is now a consistent producer. At this stage, bird protection becomes a \"must\" to actually harvest this volume.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 15.2027%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,5,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eYear 6+\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 18.7483%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,5,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e50 – 100+ lbs\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.049%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"3,5,2,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"3,5,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003ePeak Production.\u003c\/b\u003e A fully mature, well-pruned Sweet Southern cherry tree can produce several bushels of fruit annually.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTORAGE\/SHELF LIFE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSweet Southern cherries (like 'Minnie Royal' and 'Royal Lee') are highly perishable because they ripen during the onset of the early summer heat. Unlike some other fruits, cherries do not continue to ripen once they are picked, so their shelf life begins the moment they leave the tree.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable data-path-to-node=\"2\" style=\"width: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.723%; text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSTORAGE METHOD\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 21.4499%; text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSHELF LIFE\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 61.8272%; text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNOTES \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.723%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eCountertop\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 21.4499%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e2 – 4 Days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 61.8272%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,2,0\"\u003eKeep in a cool, dark area. Room temperature causes cherries to lose their \"snap\" and sweetness very quickly.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.723%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eRefrigerator\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 21.4499%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e7 – 14 Days\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 61.8272%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\"\u003eStore in a plastic bag or container in the crisper drawer. Keep them as cold as possible (ideally \u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"98\"\u003e32°F - 36°F\u003c\/b\u003e).\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.723%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFreezer\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 21.4499%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003e10 – 12 Months\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 61.8272%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,2,0\"\u003ePit them first for easier use later. Freeze in a single layer on a tray before transferring to a freezer-safe bag.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCritical Handling Tips for Maximum Shelf Life\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e1. \u003cstrong\u003eKeep the Stems On: \u003c\/strong\u003eAlways harvest or buy cherries with the stems attached. Removing the stem creates a \"wound\" at the top of the fruit that allows bacteria to enter and moisture to escape, cutting the shelf life in half.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. \u003cstrong\u003eThe \"Don't Wash\" Rule: \u003c\/strong\u003eNever wash your cherries until right before you are ready to eat them. Moisture trapped in the stem cavity or on the skin is the primary cause of mold and \"pitting\" (sunken spots) in the fridge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. \u003cstrong\u003eAbsorb the Ethylene: \u003c\/strong\u003eCherries are sensitive to ethylene gas produced by other fruits like ripening bananas or apples. Keep them in their own drawer to prevent them from softening prematurely.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. \u003cstrong\u003eCheck for \"Leakers\": \u003c\/strong\u003eBefore putting a harvest in the fridge, quickly sort through them. One crushed or \"leaking\" cherry can cause a fungal chain reaction that spoils the entire batch within 48 hours.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePRUNING\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePruning a Sweet Southern Cherry (such as 'Minnie Royal' or 'Royal Lee') is essential for maintaining tree health and ensuring high fruit yields. Unlike some fruit trees that require heavy annual thinning, sweet cherries are pruned to balance light penetration with the protection of their sensitive, thin bark.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ctable data-path-to-node=\"2\" style=\"width: 100%;\"\u003e\n\u003cthead\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 17.7365%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eType of Pruning\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 16.2188%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTiming\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"text-align: center; width: 66.0447%;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePurpose\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/thead\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 17.7365%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,1,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eFormative\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.2188%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,1,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eLate Winter (Dormant)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.0447%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,1,2,0\"\u003eTo establish a strong \"Central Leader\" or \"Open Vase\" shape during the first 3 years of growth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 17.7365%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eMaintenance\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.2188%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSummer (Post-Harvest)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.0447%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\"\u003eRemoving the \"3 Ds\" (\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,2,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"21\"\u003eDead, Damaged, Diseased\u003c\/b\u003e) and thinning the canopy to allow light to reach the inner fruiting spurs.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 17.7365%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,3,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eSize Control\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 16.2188%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\"\u003e\u003cb data-path-to-node=\"2,3,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\"\u003eLate Summer\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd style=\"width: 66.0447%;\"\u003e\u003cspan data-path-to-node=\"2,3,2,0\"\u003eReducing the height of the tree to keep the harvest reachable and to prevent the tree from becoming \"top-heavy.\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"text-align: center;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-decoration: underline;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eKey Strategies for Success\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e1. \u003cstrong\u003eThe \"Open Center\" vs. \"Central Leader\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOpen Center (Vase): \u003c\/strong\u003eMost common for home orchards. By removing the central trunk and encouraging 3–5 main scaffold branches, you allow maximum sunlight into the middle of the tree. This is vital for ripening cherries and preventing fungal diseases.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCentral Leader: \u003c\/strong\u003eBest for smaller spaces. The tree grows like a Christmas tree with one main trunk. This requires more careful management of horizontal \"fruiting\" branches.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. \u003cstrong\u003eProtecting the Fruiting Spurs: \u003c\/strong\u003eSweet Southern cherries produce most of their fruit on spurs—short, stubby woody growths that look like \"clusters\" of buds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eThe 5-Year Rule:\u003c\/strong\u003e These spurs can produce fruit for 5 years or more. When pruning, be careful not to \"strip\" the branches clean, or you will remove several years of potential harvests.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRenewal: \u003c\/strong\u003eEvery year, aim to remove about 10–15% of the oldest, least productive wood to encourage the tree to grow fresh, vigorous new spurs.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. \u003cstrong\u003eSummer Pruning in the South:\u003c\/strong\u003e In warmer climates, many growers prefer summer pruning (immediately after the May\/June harvest).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDisease Prevention:\u003c\/strong\u003e Pruning in dry summer weather reduces the risk of Bacterial Canker, a common cherry disease that enters through fresh cuts during wet winter months.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eGrowth Suppression: \u003c\/strong\u003eCutting in the summer slows the tree down, making it easier to keep the tree at a manageable 12–15 foot height.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. \u003cstrong\u003eCritical Precautions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSunscald Awareness: \u003c\/strong\u003eSince the bark of Southern cherries is thin, heavy pruning that suddenly exposes the main trunk to intense summer sun can cause the bark to crack. If you prune heavily, consider \"whitewashing\" the trunk with a 50\/50 mix of white interior latex paint and water.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSharp, Clean Tools: \u003c\/strong\u003eAlways use bypass pruners (not anvil style) to ensure clean cuts that heal quickly. Sanitize your blades with rubbing alcohol between trees to prevent the spread of pathogens.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeading Back:\u003c\/strong\u003e If a branch grows longer than 3 feet in a single season, \"head it back\" by 25%. This forces the branch to stiffen up so it won't snap under the weight of a heavy cherry crop.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e5.\u003cstrong\u003e Fruit Thinning: \u003c\/strong\u003eUnlike peaches, cherries generally do not require heavy thinning. However, if the tree is over-loaded in Year 3, removing some small green fruit can prevent branch breakage and ensure the remaining cherries reach a larger size.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Texas Tree Farms","offers":[{"title":"3 Gallon","offer_id":54677164884136,"sku":null,"price":62.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0517\/8359\/8248\/files\/83b185fc-c196-4f8b-a1cd-5f4af3aed4d0.png?v=1772234901","url":"https:\/\/texastreefarms.com\/products\/cherry-sweet-southern","provider":"Texas Tree Farms","version":"1.0","type":"link"}