Sour Cherry (Prunus cerasus)

Sour Cherry is an excellent addition to food forests and permaculture systems due to its reliable fruit production, compact size, and early blooms that support pollinators. Its ability to thrive in colder climates in less-than-ideal soils makes it a resilient and rewarding choice for integrated farmsteads, silvopasture, and cold climate orchards.

Sour Cherry trees grow with an upright, spreading form, creating a dense canopy of bright green leaves. In spring, they are covered with fragrant white blossoms, followed by clusters of red cherries that ripen in mid to late summer. The tree is relatively fast-growing and begins producing fruit within a few years. It requires minimal pruning and maintenance, while growing compact for easy harvest.

Large 1'-2', 1 year old seedling
Medium 6"-12", 1 year old seedling

Sour cherry breeding in Canada has focused on developing cold-hardy cultivars capable of thriving in the country's harsh climates. Efforts by researchers and growers have resulted in improved varieties with enhanced fruit quality, disease resistance, and adaptability to shorter growing seasons. Known for their high antioxidant content, sour cherries are a nutritional powerhouse.