Does Mountain View Have Enough Cold Nights To Set Cherries?

Question

I have a cherry tree that has been planted for 4 year5s. Each year it blossoms and begins to form cherries. Before long the green buds turn yellow and fall off of the tree. Last year there was an infestation of Black Cherry Aphids but all other years there were no bugs. Could it be that the weather in Mountain View Ca Zip 94041 does not have enough hours of frost?

Answer 1

The chilling requirement for cherries varies with the cultivar, but zones 4 to 7 are a safe bet. Since you are in zone 9b, that could be the problem. However, there are low-chill cherry varieties, and if you bought yours locally, they probably stock what will produce. There is also the question of pollination. Does your tree need a pollinator plant? It also could be disease related. Are you pruning the tree to allow light to all branches?

Find out what your cultivar name is and check on its hardiness. You also may want to call the local extension agent who will know what cultivars will work in your area.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/cherry/cherry-fruit-drop-problems.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/fegen/reasons-for-small-hard-fruit.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/cherry/cherry-tree-pruning.htm