Benton Sweet Cherry Tree

History of the Tree

The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree is a modern cherry variety developed through extensive breeding and selection. It was introduced by Oregon State University in the early 2000s. This exceptional cherry tree is the result of crossing the popular Bing cherry with the Chelan cherry, resulting in a flavorful and productive variety.

Detailed Description of the Tree

The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree is a deciduous tree with a moderate to vigorous growth habit. It typically reaches a height of 12 to 15 feet (3.7 to 4.6 meters) with a spread of 8 to 10 feet (2.4 to 3 meters). The tree features a well-branched structure and an upright, rounded canopy.

It boasts attractive dark green foliage that turns vibrant shades of yellow and red in the fall. In spring, the Benton® Sweet Cherry Tree showcases clusters of delicate white flowers, adding beauty to the landscape. These blossoms give way to an abundant harvest of plump, juicy cherries.

Types of This Tree

The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree is a specific cultivar within the sweet cherry category. It does not have distinct types, but it is important to select the appropriate rootstock for optimal growth and performance.

Importance of This Tree

The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree holds several important qualities:

• Excellent Flavor: The cherries of the Benton variety are known for their exceptional taste. They are firm, sweet, and possess a rich flavor profile, making them a favorite for fresh eating, baking, and preserving.
• Productivity: The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree is highly productive, providing a generous yield of cherries each season. It is a reliable choice for those seeking a bountiful harvest.
• Disease Resistance: This cherry variety exhibits good resistance to common cherry diseases, such as cherry leaf spot and brown rot. Proper care and maintenance help ensure the tree's health and minimize the risk of disease.

How to Care for This Tree

Proper care is essential to promote the healthy growth and productivity of the Benton® Sweet Cherry Tree:

• Plant the tree in a location that receives full sunlight, as cherries require at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal fruit production.
• Ensure the soil is well-drained and fertile, as good soil conditions provide the necessary nutrients for the tree's growth. Conduct a soil test to determine any necessary amendments.
• Water the tree regularly, especially during dry spells, to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Adequate moisture is crucial for fruit development and overall tree health.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, extending to the drip line. Mulch helps conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
• Prune the tree during the dormant season to maintain its shape, promote airflow, and remove dead or diseased branches. Pruning also aids in fruit production and disease prevention.
• Monitor for common cherry pests, such as aphids, cherry fruit flies, and birds. Take appropriate measures, such as using insect netting or organic insecticides, to protect the fruit from damage.
• Fertilize the tree annually with a balanced fruit tree fertilizer, following the manufacturer's instructions. Fertilization provides essential nutrients to support tree growth, flowering, and fruit development.

Benefits of the Tree

The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree offers several benefits:

• Delicious Cherries: The cherries produced by the Benton variety are a true delight. They are juicy, sweet, and have a rich flavor that is irresistible.
• Abundant Harvest: This cherry tree is known for its generous fruit production. It consistently yields a significant quantity of cherries, providing ample supply for fresh consumption, canning, and baking.
• Ornamental Value: In addition to its fruit-bearing capabilities, the Benton® Sweet Cherry Tree adds beauty to landscapes with its showy spring blossoms. It serves as an attractive focal point in gardens and orchards.

How to Plant This Tree

Follow these steps to successfully plant a Benton® Sweet Cherry Tree:

1. Choose a planting location that receives full sunlight and has well-drained soil. Avoid areas prone to frost pockets or excessive moisture.
2. Dig a hole that is wider and slightly deeper than the root ball of the tree.
3. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the bud union or graft union is above the soil line.
4. Backfill the hole with soil, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water the tree thoroughly after planting and continue to water regularly, especially during the first year, to aid in establishment.

Different Types of Wood Products That Can Be Made From

The wood of the Benton Sweet Cherry Tree, like other cherry wood varieties, is highly valued for its durability, attractive grain patterns, and rich reddish-brown color. It is commonly used in fine woodworking for furniture, cabinets, flooring, and decorative items. The wood is also sought after by instrument makers for crafting musical instruments such as guitars and violins.

Cons

While the Benton Sweet Cherry Tree has numerous advantages, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Pollination Requirement: Sweet cherry varieties, including the Benton, require cross-pollination with a compatible cherry tree for optimal fruit set. Planting another sweet cherry variety nearby is necessary to ensure proper pollination.
• Disease and Pest Management: Although the Benton variety has good disease resistance, it is still susceptible to certain cherry diseases, such as bacterial canker and powdery mildew. Regular monitoring and proper cultural practices are essential for disease prevention and management.
• Space Requirements: The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree requires adequate space to accommodate its size at maturity. Ensure proper spacing to allow for proper growth and airflow within the canopy.

FAQs

Q: Can I grow the Benton Sweet Cherry Tree in a container?

A: While it is possible to grow a cherry tree in a large container, it is generally not recommended for the Benton® Sweet Cherry Tree due to its size and long-term growth requirements. The tree thrives best when planted in the ground where it can establish a strong root system.

Q: How long does it take for the Benton Sweet Cherry Tree to bear fruit?

A: The Benton Sweet Cherry Tree typically begins to produce fruit within 3 to 5 years after planting, although the exact timing can vary depending on growing conditions and tree health.