Spoiler alert: they’re not picky, but they do have a few rules. Most cherry trees love a temperate climate—think mild winters and cool springs.
Imagine your favorite cozy sweater weather, but for a tree. That’s their happy place.
The classic “Washington, D.C.” kind
You’ve seen the photos: the tidal basin, the pink clouds, the selfies. Those famous trees are Japanese flowering cherries, and they thrive in humid summers and chilly winters.
They’re actually pretty tough, like that friend who shows up to brunch even when it’s raining. They need full sun, though—no shady business.
The orchard cherry trees (the ones you eat)
These are the pie-makers. Sweet cherries (like Bing) adore California and Washington State. Sour cherries (for jam!) are tougher and grow in Michigan and New York.
Ever munched a cherry from a roadside stand? That tree probably got chilly winters and long, warm summers. It’s like a plant needing a good nap before a big day.
