Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Collect and Clean Cherry Pits
- After eating fresh cherries, collect the pits and rinse them thoroughly to remove any fruit pulp.
Step 2: Cold Treatment (Stratification)
- Soak the clean pits in water for 24 hours.
- Dry them on a paper towel, then place them in a plastic bag with a moistened paper towel.
- Seal the bag and refrigerate for about 10 weeks, ensuring the paper towel stays damp.
Step 3: Prepare for Planting
- After stratification, remove the pits from the refrigerator.
- Fill a planting pot with potting soil, leaving an inch from the top.
- Lightly moisten the soil.
Step 4: Plant the Pits
- Make small holes about an inch deep in the soil.
- Place one pit in each hole with any sprouted roots facing downward.
- Cover the pits with soil and gently press to remove air pockets.
Step 5: Provide Proper Care
- Put the pot in a sunny spot, getting at least six hours of sunlight daily.
- Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
- Maintain a warm environment around 70°F (21°C).
Step 6: Transplanting
- Once seedlings are a few inches tall with multiple leaves, they’re ready for outdoor transplanting.
- Choose a sunny area with well-draining soil, dig a hole, and carefully transplant the seedling.
- Water thoroughly after planting.
Tips for Success:
