Are Bees Attracted To Cherry Trees?

Cherry trees are deciduous trees that produce fruit known as cherries. They can reach up to 30 feet in height and have a broad, spreading canopy. In the UK, cherry trees are a popular choice for gardens and public spaces due to their beautiful blossoms and edible fruit. But are bees attracted to cherry trees in the UK?

The answer is yes, bees are attracted to cherry trees. Cherry trees produce nectar and pollen that bees collect for food. Some species of cherry trees, such as the Summer Sun and White Heart, are particularly good sources of pollen for bees. Additionally, bees are drawn to the blossoms of cherry trees which contain high amounts of nectar.

However, the timing of the blossoming period is crucial for bee attraction. Bees are mostly attracted to cherry tree blossoms during early springtime. Other factors that may affect bee attraction to cherry trees include weather conditions, location, and availability of other food sources.

It’s important to note that bees play a vital role in pollinating cherry trees and ensuring the production of cherries. Without bees, cherry trees would not be able to reproduce and bear fruit. So, planting cherry trees in your garden or public spaces can help support bee populations and contribute to the local ecosystem.

Best Varieties of Cherry Trees

There are several varieties of cherry trees that are particularly attractive to bees.

Summer Sun: This variety produces large, dark red cherries with a sweet flavour. It is a mid-season cherry, ripening in early to mid-July.

Kordia: Also known as “Attika,” this variety produces large, heart-shaped cherries with a dark red colour and a sweet, juicy flavour. It is a late-season cherry, ripening in mid-August.

Bigarreau Napoléon: This variety produces large, pale yellow cherries with a red blush and a sweet, slightly acidic flavour. It is an early-season cherry, ripening in late June to early July.

Bigarreau Burlat: This variety produces medium-sized, dark red cherries with a sweet, juicy flavour. It is an early-season cherry, ripening in late May to early June.

Lapins: This variety produces large, dark red cherries with a firm texture and a sweet, rich flavour. It is a late-season cherry, ripening in late June to early July.

Regina: This variety produces medium-sized, dark red cherries with a sweet flavour and a firm texture. It is a mid-season cherry, ripening in early to mid-July.

Stella: This variety produces large, dark red cherries with a sweet, juicy flavour. It is an early-season cherry, ripening in late May to early June.

Penny: This variety produces small to medium-sized, dark red cherries with a sweet flavour and a firm texture. It is a mid-season cherry, ripening in early to mid-July.

Colney: This variety produces medium-sized, dark red cherries with a sweet, juicy flavour. It is a mid-season cherry, ripening in early to mid-July.

Merton Glory: This variety produces large, dark red cherries with a sweet, tangy flavour. It is a mid-season cherry, ripening in early to mid-July.

White Heart: This variety produces medium-sized, yellow cherries with a red blush and a sweet, mild flavour. It is an early-season cherry, ripening in late May to early June.

Growing Cherry Trees

To create an ideal environment for the bees, it’s important to follow proper planting, pruning, and irrigation techniques. Here are some key steps to take:

Planting: When planting cherry trees, choose a location that provides full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and deep enough so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Make sure to water the tree thoroughly after planting.

Pruning: Prune cherry trees in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead or diseased wood, as well as any branches that cross or rub against each other. This will help improve air circulation and prevent the spread of disease.

Irrigation: Cherry trees need regular watering, especially during dry spells. Water them deeply at least once a week, making sure the soil is moist to a depth of 6 inches.

In addition to these key steps, here are some helpful tips for maintaining healthy cherry trees and promoting bee populations:

Soil preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with compost or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 formula, in early spring and again in late summer to provide nutrients for the tree.

Pollination strategies: To promote healthy pollination, plant a variety of bee-friendly flowers and herbs around the cherry tree. You can also introduce Mason bees or other native bee species to your garden to help with pollination.

By following these guidelines, you can create a thriving environment for both cherry trees and bees.

Where To Buy

If you’re interested in purchasing cherry trees, I recommend checking out Crocus.co.uk. They have a great selection of high-quality cherry trees that are sure to attract bees and provide delicious fruit for you and your family to enjoy.