As you know, there are many varieties in each plant genus. Cherry trees are no exception. These beautiful fruit trees are very popular thanks to their beautiful flowers and their fruits that we love so much. But in this article we want to talk about a specific variety, a self-fertile tree widely grown in Spain: Burlat cherry.
We will tell you what this vegetable is and when it usually blooms. In addition, We are going to list the basic care that the burlat cherry requires, you will therefore no longer have any excuse not to cultivate it yourself. Without a doubt, it is a plant worth having in the orchard or in the garden.
Contents
What is the burlat cherry?
When we talk about burlat cherry we are referring to a variety of fruit tree belonging to the family rosaceaspecifically the gender plum. Although the origin of this vegetable is not entirely clear, it is much more common in Europe, West Asia and North Africa.
As regards the appearance of this variety of cherries, it is an upright deciduous tree, with good vigour, which It can reach a height of up to twenty meters, or even more. The trunk is usually quite thick and well branched. The bark is smooth and grayish in color. Over time, it tends to crack, which makes it possible to distinguish the oldest trees. The crowns of burlat cherry trees are distinguished by their very large width.
It must be said that it is a very striking and magnificent tree when it is in flowering period. It is therefore ideal for beautifying our gardens and, incidentally, harvesting some of its delicious fruits: cherries. All types of cherries, sweet and wild, belong to this variety. In addition, it should be noted that this fruit tree can be grown in many areas of the Iberian Peninsula.
What is a self-fertile cherry tree?
Another very important characteristic of the burlat cherry tree is that It is a self-fertile cherry tree. What is that? You may already know that there are different types of pollination: direct and cross-pollination. In short, we can say that in cross-pollination, plants need the help of the wind, insects and/or birds to reproduce. These so-called “vectors” carry pollen from a male plant to a female plant.
Related article:
types of pollination
On the other hand, in direct pollination, these vectors are not necessary. Indeed, the same plant contains both male and female organs. can thus self-fertilize. This is the case of the Burlat cherry tree, which can reproduce on its own and without outside help. Nature is amazing, right?
The great advantage of self-fertile cherry trees is precisely the independence they have from plants that require cross-pollination. However, adverse weather conditions can reduce its ability to reproduce, such as excessive temperatures during the flowering season. It is therefore strongly recommended plan the planting and cultivation of cherry trees, bringing together diverse groups of pollinators that share the flowering season.
When do burlat cherry trees bloom?
As we have already mentioned before, the burlat cherry tree is self-fertile. Regarding pollination, it is compatible with rabbit and van varieties. However, the varieties sold today do not require any type of pollination, as long as the temperatures are adequate. The flowering of this fruit tree is early, usually at the end of March. However, this will mainly depend on the area where we are and how cold it is.
Regarding the flowers, these are large and white. The most curious thing about them is that they are suitable for jams. The fruits, the famous cherries, are plump and bright red. Its pulp is compact and they have a sweet taste, ideal for eating fresh or in jam. They can usually be harvested between mid and late May.
Burbat cherry tree care
Now that we know a little more about the characteristics of the burlat cherry tree, let’s talk about the Basic care we need, in case we want to cultivate it ourselves. Below we will list the needs and recommendations for the culture of the burlat cherry tree:
- Location: The most recommended for this fruit tree is to place it in full sun.
- Temperature: It is able to withstand fairly low temperatures. However, if the weather is very cold, it should be placed in sheltered areas to protect the flowers from damage from late frosts or cold rains.
- Usually I: The taste should generally be deep and fresh.
- Subscriber: In the spring, the bottom fertilization must be done with manure. Later, you can continue this task using special fertilizers for fruit trees.
- Irrigation: Although it is true that it requires a lot of water, being grown several times as an irrigated plant, excess humidity must be avoided.
- Cut: Usually very light pruning is done for maintenance.
Plagues and diseases
Like all plants, the burlat cherry can also be the victim of a pest or disease. The insects that most often attack this fruit tree are aphids and San Jose lice. Both can be combated with mealybugs. In terms of diseases, this variety of cherry tree tends to suffer more frequently gummosis and botrytis. Both can be treated with copper.
As per usual, it is best to spray fruit trees twice a year. The first treatment should be carried out in autumn, just before the leaves begin to fall. The second should be carried out in the spring, shortly before the start of the flowering season. You can mix cochineal control with copper fungicide. The recommended amounts are as follows:
- Copper fungicide: 50 grams per 10 liters of water
- Anti-cochineal: 10 cubic centimeters for 20 liters of water (which would equal 0.5 cubic centimeters for every liter of water)
Having all this information about the burlat cherry tree, it must be said that it is ideal for growing it. It is very ornamental and its fruits are delicious. By caring for it correctly and with patience, we can enjoy a wonder of nature. What more ?