• Cherry trees bring a distinct look (not to mention edible fruit) to your garden, but only if they are properly planted and receive the right care. Unhealthy trees will turn outdoor spaces into a nightmare instead of a dream. Follow the requirements for a cherry tree to keep yours happy and healthy.
  
  

Preparation

• Remove grass and weeds from the area before you plant your cherry tree. A 2-foot space should be cleared out where you intend to place the tree. Apply herbicide to the area and wait one week for weeds and grass to wilt away. Bare ground will provide more nutrients for the tree than soil that is already supporting growth. If deer and wildlife are a threat, you must be prepared to protect young saplings from the animals. Erect electric or mesh fencing that will surround the tree to keep deer and other tree-eating predators away.
  
  

Site Selection

• Plant cherry trees in a sunny spot where they will receive plenty of air. Do not plant cherry trees too close to buildings or walls, which might prevent air flow. The soil should be well-draining; no standing water should ever be around the tree. To prevent frost damage and keep the soil well drained, plant cherry trees on top of a hill or slope. Avoid placing the tree in a low-lying site, where it will be susceptible to cold and frost.
  
  

Planting

• New cherry trees are planted as rootstocks. If planting multiple trees, space each at least 35 feet apart to allow for adequate root growth. Dwarf cherry trees should have at least 5 feet of room between each. When planting the rootstock in the ground, bury it so the graft union (the branched area of the rootstock) is approximately 2 to 3 inches below the soil surface. Plant the trees in early spring so they will benefit from spring and summer warmth during their first growing season.