Non producing Nanking Cherry trees

Question

We have the Nanking Cherry trees that are about 6 yrs old or a little older. They always are covered with beautiful pink blossoms in spring, but we never have a crop in fall. We have seen just a few berries early in the season some years, but I imagine maybe the birds get them because we have never had a cherry off of our 10 trees. The trees are about 6 ft. tall and are pretty. They turn sort of a maroon color in fall or over the season and they are gorgeous when flowering in spring, but we want the fruit. We live in Amery, WI, which is 50 miles east of St. Paul, MN. Each year we assure they have plenty of water and have given them 10/10 fertilizer at times, hoping that would help, but nothing does. Can you help us?

Sincerely,
Doris Martinson

Answer 1

The Nanking Cherry Tree is not self fertile. Two or more bushes should be planted within 100 feet of each other to ensure cross pollination. They will do better when planted with other Nanking varieties. This tree does not tolerate juglone, which is produced by the Black Walnut Trees. Make sure they are not planted near any of these trees. The pH of the soil should be 6.1 to 7.0. Fertilizing application is specific to the growth rate of your tree.

This link will help you with this: http://learningstore.uwex.edu/assets/pdfs/A3639.PDF

Fruit production can be stimulated by a rejuvenation prune. This article will help with that: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/cherry/cherry-tree-pruning.htm