Cherry 'Kristin'

$109.99
Title

Known as the "world's hardiest sweet cherry," the 'Kristin' is a stunning addition to any northern orchard. In spring, it is smothered in stunning clusters of fragrant white blossoms that hang gracefully before the foliage emerges. As summer reaches its peak, the tree is laden with large, glossy, purplish-black cherries that shimmer like polished jewels against deep green, deciduous leaves. In autumn, the foliage transitions into outstanding shades of orange and red, providing a spectacular fiery finale to the growing season.

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Plant Details

Difficulty:

Medium

Zone:

4–8

Watering:

Medium to High

Years To Bear:

2–3

Plant Type:

Fruit Tree

Light:

Full Sun

Plant Profile

Common Names:

Kristin Sweet Cherry, Kristin Heart Cherry, Wild Cherry, Bird Cherry

Scientific Name:

Prunus avium 'Kristin'

Growth Details:

Mature Size: 12–15 feet (Dwarf/Semi-Dwarf rootstocks) or up to 25 feet (Standard).

Growth Habit: Upright and spreading.

Form: Conical crown when young, becoming rounded at maturity.

Growth Rate: Medium.

Longevity: 50+ years under ideal conditions.

Features:

Exceptional Hardiness: Bred to survive harsh winters in Norway and Montana.

Crack Resistance: Fruits are moderately resistant to cracking during summer rains.

Attracts: Birds and pollinators.

Uses: Excellent for fresh eating, baking, and preserves.

Environmental Needs:

Exposure: Full Sun; benefits from shelter from strong winds to prevent fruit drop.

Soil Preferences: Well-drained loamy soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

Soil Tolerance: Highly tolerant of urban pollution and adaptable to various soil types if drainage is good.

Watering: Requires 1–2 inches of water weekly; prefers soil to dry slightly between deep waterings.

Care Guide

Plant Care

Care:

Light Requirements: Full sun (6–8+ hours) is critical for fruit development and sweetness.

Moisture Requirements: Needs regular, consistent moisture, particularly during the fruiting phase; do not allow soil to stay waterlogged.

Maintenance: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead wood and aerate the canopy for better production.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced or low-nitrogen fruit tree fertilizer (like 5-10-10) in early spring before blooms open.

Tips For Success:

Winter Protection: Protect young trunks from rodents and sunscald using tree guards.

Support: Staking is recommended for newly planted dwarf trees until roots are established.

Mulching: Maintain a 2–4 inch layer of organic mulch to conserve moisture.

Protection: Use bird netting once fruit begins to turn red to ensure you get the harvest before the wildlife.

Planting Considerations:

Best Time To Plant: Spring or autumn.

Spacing: 15–25 feet apart (depending on rootstock).

Location Tips: Avoid low-lying frost pockets; plant in a location with good air circulation.

Fruit Profile

Size:

Large (approx. 1 inch in diameter).

Colour:

Dark Burgundy-Red to Purplish-Black.

Texture:

Firm, meaty, and juicy.

Flavour:

Sweet, rich, and aromatic; high quality for a cold-hardy variety.

Harvest Time:

Mid-to-late July

Pollination Requirements:

Self-sterile; requires another sweet cherry variety for cross-pollination. Compatible partners include Stella, Lapins, Black Gold, or Rainier
Fruit Profile