Prunus cerasus austera: Overview
Prunus cerasus austera is a variety of sour cherry that is native to Central Europe. It is known by several common names, including austere cherry, Austro-Hungarian cherry, and more recently, Hungarian cherry.
Appearance
The tree of Prunus cerasus austera reaches a height of up to 10 meters and has a spreading crown. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a serrated edge. The fruit is small (around 1 cm in diameter) and round, with a sour-tasting pulp that is dark red when ripe. The bark is smooth and grayish-brown in color.
Uses
Prunus cerasus austera is primarily grown for its fruit, which is used in the production of various food products such as jams, jellies, and juices. The sour cherries are also often used for baking, especially in traditional Central European cakes and pastries. Additionally, some people believe that the plant has health benefits, such as being a source of vitamin C and antioxidants. The wood of the tree is used for furniture making and as a fuel source.
Overall, Prunus cerasus austera is a valuable plant with a long history of use in Central European cuisine and culture.
Light Conditions
Prunus cerasus austera prefers a lot of sunlight and bright conditions to grow properly. Inadequate light conditions will negatively affect the yield of fruits. The ideal light for this plant is direct sunlight for at least six hours per day. Without proper light exposure, the plant cannot perform photosynthesis, and it may lead to the growth of weak plants that are susceptible to disease
Temperature
Prunus cerasus austera prefers moderate temperatures ranging between 15°C to 24°C. Temperatures outside of this range can have a negative impact on the growth of the plant. Heavy frost can be fatal to the plant as it can destroy the flowering buds. The dormant prune tree can, however, withstand temperatures of up to -30°C
Soil Requirements
The soil for Prunus cerasus austera requires good drainage to avoid waterlogging. Soils that retain too much moisture can lead to root rot, which can cause serious damage to the plant. The ideal soil pH for this plant is between 6.0 and 6.5, as it is considered slightly acidic. The plant does well in soils rich in organic matter. Adding organic fertilizer such as compost will improve the soil's fertility and provide the plant with the essential nutrients required for growth
Cultivation Methods
Prunus cerasus austera, also known as Morello, is a type of sour cherry tree that is relatively easy to cultivate. It can be grown in USDA zones 4 to 7. In terms of soil preference, the tree does well in well-draining, loamy soils with a pH level of 6.2 to 6.8. If you have a heavy soil type, it's essential to amend it with compost, sand or peat moss. The best time to plant the tree is in the fall or early spring when the soil is still moist.
Watering Needs
Watering your Morello tree is crucial to its growth and productivity, especially during the first year after planting. The tree requires frequent watering of at least once a week. You should increase the frequency of watering during the hot, dry summer months to prevent water stress. It's best to use a drip irrigation or soaker hose to water the tree deeply, ensuring that the water reaches the roots.
Fertilization
Prunus cerasus austera should be fertilized annually with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer in early spring, before the trees start producing buds. You can also use organic fertilizers such as bone meal, blood meal or compost to provide the necessary nutrients for the tree. However, do not over-fertilize the tree as it can lead to excessive vegetative growth and reduce fruit production.
Pruning
The Morello tree requires regular pruning to maintain its shape, remove dead or damaged branches, and promote optimum fruit production. Pruning should be done during the dormant season, in late winter or early spring, before the buds start to grow. You should first remove any crossing branches or ones that are growing inward. Later, prune the upper branches to let in more sunlight, while also opening up the center of the tree to better air circulation.
Propagation of Prunus cerasus austera
Prunus cerasus austera, commonly known as sour cherry, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Rosaceae family. This plant is commonly propagated by seeds, cuttings, and grafting.
Propagation by Seeds
Sour cherry can be propagated by seeds. The seeds should be taken from ripe cherries and should be sown in the fall. The seeds should be soaked in water for 24 hours before sowing. The soil should be well-draining, and the seeds should be planted at a depth of approximately 2-3 cm. Germination usually occurs in the spring, and the seedlings can be transplanted outdoors after the last frost.
Propagation by Cuttings
Sour cherry can also be propagated by cuttings. The cuttings should be taken from one-year-old wood in early fall. The cuttings should be approximately 15-20 cm long and should be taken from healthy trees. The leaves should be removed from the lower half of the cutting, and the cutting should be dipped in rooting hormone. The cuttings should be inserted into a well-draining soil mix and kept moist until roots develop. Once rooted, the cuttings can be transplanted outdoors.
Propagation by Grafting
Grafting is another method used to propagate sour cherry. This involves attaching a scion (a stem of the desired tree) onto a rootstock (the base of the tree). This method is commonly used to propagate fruit trees as it allows for the rootstock to provide the tree with necessary nutrients and support while also allowing the scion to produce fruit with desired characteristics. Grafting should be done in the early spring when the sap is rising.
Disease and Pest Management for Prunus Cerasus Austera
Prunus cerasus austera is a sour cherry plant that is grown worldwide for its fruit. However, the plant can be affected by various diseases and pests, which can significantly reduce the quality and yield of the fruit. Hence, here are some common diseases and pests that affect the plant and ways to manage them.
Common Diseases
Cherry Powdery Mildew - This is a fungal disease that causes white powdery growth on leaves and fruit. The fungus thrives in humid conditions and can reduce the yield of the plant. Effective management of this disease involves the use of fungicides, pruning, and ensuring proper plant spacing for good air circulation.
Cherry Leaf Spot - This disease is caused by a fungus that leaves circular brown spots on the leaves and fruit. Affected leaves can turn yellow and fall off prematurely, leading to reduced fruit quality and yield. Effective management of this disease involves the use of fungicides, regular pruning, and ensuring proper plant spacing for good air circulation.
Root Rot - This disease is caused by a fungus that affects the roots of the plant, leading to poor growth and, in severe cases, death. This disease is common in areas with poorly drained soil and high humidity. To manage root rot, farmers can avoid overwatering the plant, planting in well-drained soil, and ensuring proper plant spacing for good air circulation.
Common Pests
Cherry Fruit Fly - This pest is responsible for the widespread damage to cherries. The larvae of this fly tunnel into the fruit, making it unmarketable. The use of insecticides, trapping, and regular harvesting can help manage this pest.
Cherry Slug - Cherry slugs are small, green larvae that feed on plant leaves, causing severe defoliation. This pest thrives in warm and humid conditions. To manage the cherry slug, farmers can use insecticides, handpicking, and physical barriers.
Cherry Aphids - These are small insects that feed on the plant sap, causing stunted growth and deformation of leaves and fruit. The use of insecticides, natural predators, and regular pruning can help manage this pest.
In conclusion, successful management of disease and pests is critical for any farmer growing Prunus cerasus austera. It is essential to identify the problem early and implement effective measures to prevent further spread.
