Understanding the Root System of Cherry Trees

Cherry trees are popular ornamental trees, prized for their beautiful spring blossoms and tasty summer fruits. However, to keep your cherry tree healthy and productive, it’s important to understand what’s going on below the soil surface. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at cherry tree roots – how they grow, spread, and function.

Types of Cherry Tree Roots

Cherry trees have two main types of roots – a taproot and fibrous lateral roots

• Taproot – This is the main, anchoring root that grows straight down into the soil It helps stabilize the tree and access water and nutrients deep in the ground Cherry trees have a long taproot, extending 1-2 meters down.

• Lateral roots – These are the spreading roots that grow out horizontally from the taproot, just under the soil surface Lateral roots are responsible for absorbing moisture and nutrients for the tree They make up the bulk of the root system.

Root Depth and Spread

• Cherry tree roots typically grow 12-16 inches deep in the soil. They are considered relatively shallow rooted compared to other tree species.

• Mature cherry tree roots can extend up to 30-40 feet out from the trunk, spreading 2-3 times wider than the branch spread above ground.

• The taproot comprises about 25% of the root system, while the lateral fibrous roots make up the other 75% of the root mass.

• Dwarfing rootstocks like Gisela restrict the overall root system depth and spread compared to full-size cherry rootstocks.

Root Growth Habits

Cherry tree roots grow aggressively, especially the lateral surface roots. Here are some key habits:

• The shallow, spreading lateral roots maximize water and nutrient absorption near the soil surface.

• Root growth surges in early spring before leaf emergence and slows in summer.

• Cherry trees produce root suckers – vertical shoots growing from adventitious buds on lateral roots.

• Root growth patterns vary with soil conditions, moisture availability, and root competition from other plants.

Why Cherry Roots Can Be Problematic

The extensive root system of cherry trees makes them prone to the following issues:

• Damage structures – Roots can crack foundations, break water pipes, and disrupt patios, walls, and sidewalks.

• Raise sidewalks – Shallow surface roots swell larger in diameter, lifting up and cracking pavement.

• Invade lawns – Dense surface roots compete with grass, inhibiting lush growth.

• Send up suckers – Suckers pop up through turfgrass, needing continual removal.

• Compete with plants – Cherry roots secrete chemicals that hinder growth of nearby plants.

Tips for Managing Cherry Tree Roots

With some care and planning, you can avoid or minimize problems with invasive cherry tree roots:

• Allow ample space – Plant trees at least 20 feet from buildings and pipes to accommodate roots.

• Improve soil – Amend soil with compost to encourage deep rooting. Avoid compacted soil.

• Install root barriers – Use vertical plastic walls and woven fabric mats to redirect roots down and away from structures.

• Prune problem roots – Selectively remove excess surface roots while avoiding the critical root zone near the trunk.

• Remove suckers – Stay vigilant in pruning out new suckers before they get established.

• Mulch annually – Maintain 2-4 inches of mulch from the trunk out to the dripline to reduce sprouting.

Ideal Growing Conditions

To encourage healthy root development, cherry trees require:

• Well-drained soil – Avoid heavy, compacted clay soil that restricts growth. Loamy soils are ideal.

• Infrequent deep watering – Soak the root zone but allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

• Ample space – Give roots room to spread out without obstructing structures.

• **Full sun **- At least 6 hours of direct sun daily.

• Shelter from wind – Protect young trees from strong winds that can damage roots.

Signs of Unhealthy Roots

Watch for these symptoms of struggling roots:

• Wilting, yellowing leaves
• Poor flowering and fruit set
• Thinning canopy
• Stunted growth
• Dieback of branches
• Mushy, rotten root tissues

Catching root problems early allows you to take corrective action like improved drainage or disease treatment.

Propagating Cherry Trees from Root Cuttings

Cherry trees can be propagated from root cuttings:

• Take 6-8 inch cuttings from healthy lateral roots in early spring.

• Plant the root pieces vertically in pots, with the top end just above the soil surface.

• Root initials will form along the cutting and grow into a new root system. Shoots emerge within a few months.

• Transplant the new seedling trees after 1-2 years of establishing roots.

Key Takeaways

• Cherry tree roots include a taproot for anchorage and fibrous lateral roots for nutrient uptake.

• Roots extend up to 40 feet from the trunk and can cause damage if not properly accommodated.

• Follow best practices for plant placement, soil preparation, and root pruning.

• Monitor root health and take prompt action at the first sign of problems.

• Healthy roots are essential for vigorous cherry tree growth and productivity.

Understanding what goes on underground is just as important as caring for the visible tree structure. With some careful planning and root care, your cherry tree will thrive for many years to come.