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Riverdene Garden Center

Crimson Passion Cherry

Crimson Passion Cherry

Regular price $99.99 CAD
Regular price Sale price $99.99 CAD
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Prunus ‘Crimson Passion’

Crimson Passion Cherry is a cold-hardy, dwarf sour cherry variety that produces large, dark red, sweet-tart cherries. Unlike other dwarf sour cherries, it has a higher sugar content, making it ideal for fresh eating, baking, and preserves. It is self-pollinating and thrives in prairie climates (Zone 2-3), making it an excellent choice for Southwest Saskatchewan.

Planting & Location

  • Hardiness Zone: 2-7 (cold-hardy and drought-resistant)
  • Mature Size: 6-8 feet tall, 5-7 feet wide
  • Growth Rate: Moderate (12-18 inches per year)
  • Sunlight Needs: Full sun (at least 6 hours per day for best fruiting)
  • Soil Preference:
    • Prefers well-drained, loamy soil.
    • Tolerates sandy and clay soils if well-draining.
    • Performs best in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6.0-7.0).
  • Spacing: 5-7 feet apart for optimal air circulation and fruit production.

Watering

  • Young Trees (First 2 Years): Water deeply once per week to establish roots.
  • Established Trees: Drought-tolerant; water every 2-3 weeks in dry periods.
  • Avoid Overwatering: Does not tolerate soggy soil—ensure good drainage.

Fertilizing

  • First Year: No fertilizer needed—focus on root establishment.
  • Mature Trees:
    • Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring.
    • Organic alternative: Compost or well-rotted manure in spring.
    • Avoid excessive nitrogen, which encourages leafy growth over fruiting.

Pollination & Fruit Production

  • Self-Pollinating: Does not require another cherry tree to set fruit.
  • Fruit Size: Large, 4-5g cherries, sweeter than other dwarf sour cherries.
  • Harvest Time: Mid to late July (depending on the season).
  • Yield: 15-20 lbs per tree when mature.

Pruning & Maintenance

  • Best Time to Prune: Late winter to early spring, before new growth.
  • How to Prune:
    • Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches to improve airflow.
    • Maintain an open center or vase shape for better sun exposure.
    • Minimal pruning required compared to other cherry varieties.

Pest & Disease Management

Common Pests:

  • Aphids – Sap-sucking insects that cause curled leaves.
    • Solution: Spray with insecticidal soap or introduce ladybugs.
  • Cherry Fruit Fly – Lays eggs inside cherries, causing maggots.
    • Solution: Use sticky traps and pick up fallen fruit.
  • Birds – Love ripe cherries!
    • Solution: Use netting to protect ripening fruit.

Common Diseases:

  • Brown Rot – Fungal disease causing rotted fruit.
    • Solution: Remove infected fruit and apply fungicide if needed.
  • Powdery Mildew – White fungal growth on leaves.
    • Solution: Improve airflow and apply sulfur-based fungicides.
  • Canker (Bacterial or Fungal) – Causes sunken lesions on branches.
    • Solution: Prune out infected branches and apply copper spray.

Winter Protection

  • Young Trees: Protect with burlap or tree wraps in extreme cold or exposed areas.
  • Mulching: Apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base (not touching the trunk) to insulate roots.
  • Rodents & Rabbits: Use tree guards to prevent bark damage in winter.

Landscape Uses

Perfect for small yards & urban gardens
Great for fresh eating, baking, and preserves
Self-pollinating—no second tree needed
Cold-hardy & drought-resistant once established
Attracts pollinators and provides seasonal interest

Additional Notes:

  • Crimson Passion Cherry is part of the University of Saskatchewan’s dwarf sour cherry breeding program, making it highly adapted to prairie climates.
  • Lifespan: 20-30 years with proper care.
  • Works well in hedgerows, container plantings, and mixed fruit orchards.

Photo courtesy of Jeffries Nurseries

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