The cherry tree is not only a special addition to the garden for its yield of delicious, tasty fruit but also for its beautiful display of spring blooms and rich autumn tones at leaf fall.  Cherries thrive in a cool, temperate climate that is relatively dry during the fruiting season.  Whilst cherries are grown successfully in the South Burnett region, some years may not be so productive.

1.       Unless planting a self-fertile variety, ensure a suitable pollinator is also planted nearby.  Lappins, Stella and             Sunburst are self-fertile varieties.

2.       Plant in well-drained, moist soil, enriched with plenty of organic matter.

3.       Where possible, plant on a slope to ensure good drainage.  Trees that have continual wet feet will be short-             lived.

4.       Cherries require a cold winter to flower and set fruit.  Some varieties require more chill hours than others.               Lappins is a variety that requires lower chill hours.

5.       Apply an application of fertilizer in early spring and again in autumn.  A healthy cherry tree should grow                   approximately 30cm each year.  If your tree is not performing or has yellowing on leaves, test the soil for                 deficiencies.

6.       Water your cherry at regular intervals and never allow the tree to dry out.  Irregular or sudden watering will           cause fruit to split.   Rain during blossom time may cause a lighter set of fruit due to less bee activity whilst             raining.

7.       Mulch well around tree.  This will help the soil to retain its moisture.

8.       Harvest in summer and always pick by cutting the stems, never by pulling on the fruit.  Cherries are delicious           eaten fresh and also ideal for freezing and preserves.

9.       Birds also enjoy these summer fruits, so protect your crop by covering your tree with bird-net.

10.     During the first four to five years of growth, lightly prune to remove any damaged branches, suckers and                 vertical growth.  Prune mature trees in summer (after fruiting) to reduce foliage and increase the number of           fruiting buds.
 

For more tips and information on growing fruit trees join Our Gardening Corner.  

Pruning your roses will help to encourage new growth which in turn will produce more blooms.  Prune in mid winter when the bush is dormant.  Always use sharp, clean secateurs, cutting on a slant approximately 1 cm above an outward facing bud.


1.       Firstly remove any thin stems shooting from the base.
2.       Remove any dead branches along with diseased growth. 
3.       Remove any shoots that have appeared from below the graft (suckers) by digging down to where they are               shooting from.  Remove by pulling down and out.
4.       Trim away any thin and straggly stems.
5.       Prune stems that are crossed and rubbing together.
6.       Shorten main branches to your desired height and shape.  Prune to an outward-facing bud.
7.       Spray with lime sulphur immediately after pruning and follow with copper oxychloride 3-4 weeks later.
8.       Apply an application of rose fertilizer to promote healthy growth and blooms.