The chokecherry can be grown into a tree or kept in containers and maintained as a smaller shrub. It’s native to North America, and has been designated as the state fruit of North Dakota. The berries can be harvested as early as July or August and into the fall. Keep in mind that a later harvest will mean sweeter berries. Chokecherry plants are prolific rhizome spreaders and are often used as a natural wall or barrier. Common pests and diseases include the prairie tent caterpillar, aphids, honey fungus, black knot, and canker fungus.
Light
Full sun exposure encourages more fruit production. However, the chokecherry is shade tolerant and can be grown in partially shaded areas.
Soil
Moist soil is ideal for chokecherries, but this plant is not picky about its soil conditions. The chokecherry can be found growing in loamy, sandy, and clay soil and can tolerate slightly acidic to slightly alkaline soil pH.
Water
The chokecherry tree is naturally found near water sources, so adequate watering is key to healthy, plentiful growth and fruit. However, some neglect will not damage this plant. The chokecherry is somewhat drought tolerant and can grow with minimal water. It is best to keep the soil moist, not wet.
Temperature and Humidity
This plant is both cold and heat tolerant and can be grown in USDA zones 2 to 7. These hardy plants can be grown in a wide range of climates and conditions.
Fertilizer
Because chokecherry plants can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, they generally do not have specific fertilizing requirements. However if you want to improve soil conditions, you can add compost or add a well-balanced fertilizer in the spring to encourage healthy growth. To determine the best fertilizer, a soil test can be used to examine any nutrient deficiencies in your soil.
Pruning Chokecherries
Proper pruning will ensure that the chokecherry does not become unproductive or unmanageable. It is best to prune in the late winter or early spring. The chokecherry can be pruned into a shrub or a tree. To train a chokecherry into a tree, prune away branches near the center of the trunk to enable adequate airflow. Remove any low-growing branches. If you’re looking for a smaller, shrub-like plant, prune away one-third of the old growth. This encourages new, productive growth while maintaining the size and shape of the shrub.
Propagating Chokecherries
Propagating chokecherries can easily be done by means of cuttings:
How to Grow Chokecherries from Seed
Growing a chokecherry from seed requires patience but is simple to accomplish:
Potting and Repotting Chokecherry
Chokecherries can easily be grown in containers. Because they are not particular about the type of soil used, average potting soil usually makes a good option. Add compost or fertilize periodically to give the potted plant the nutrients it needs. Keep potted chokecherry plants in a sunny location with enough room to branch out and grow. Be sure to water regularly, as a potted plant does not have access to underground water sources. When the chokecherry fills the pot and has no room to grow, it is time to repot. Gently tip the chokecherry onto its side and loosen the roots from the pot. Place the plant in a slightly larger pot and fill it with fresh soil. Water generously.
Overwintering Chokecherry
Because the chokecherry is very cold tolerant, there is not much required to overwinter this plant. Adding a thick layer of mulch in the fall can help insulate the roots and protect them from the cold. For potted chokecherries, it is best to move the plant to an area that is somewhat protected from the cold, such as in a garage. You can also create an insulation layer around the pot by encircling the pot in chicken wire and filling in the open space with mulch or hay.
