Cherries in Houston: A Tale of Two Cities (Or One Very Hot One)
So, you want to grow cherries in Houston? Well, buckle up, buttercup, because this is gonna be a wild ride. Let's dive into the heart of this cherry-picked dilemma.
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| Can You Grow Cherries In Houston |
The Great Cherry Conundrum
Houston, we have a problem. Or rather, our cherries do. You see, these little red darlings are more accustomed to the crisp chill of winter than the sweltering embrace of a Houston summer. It's like asking a penguin to do the tango in the Sahara.
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Now, don't get me wrong, I admire your cherry-picking spirit. But let's be realistic. Growing traditional sweet cherries here is about as likely as finding a quiet spot in downtown Houston.
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Cherry Picking Your Options
But fear not, cherry lover! All hope is not lost. While we can't promise you a cherry orchard in your backyard, there are a few alternatives that might satisfy your sweet tooth.
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- Cherry of the Rio Grande: This tropical cousin might not be a spitting image of your classic cherry, but it's a pretty good lookalike. It's got that same juicy sweetness, and it can actually handle Houston's heat. Just don't expect it to make a cherry pie that'll win any blue ribbons.
- Barbados Cherry: Another tropical option, this one is a bit more tart but still packs a punch. It's a versatile fruit that can be used in jams, jellies, and even juices.
The Chill Factor
The main culprit behind Houston's cherry woes is something called "chill hours." Cherries need a certain number of hours below a certain temperature to "rest" before they can bloom and produce fruit. Houston? Not so much.
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So, Can You Grow Cherries in Houston?
The short answer is: kind of. You can grow some cherry-like fruits, but don't expect a bountiful harvest of sweet, juicy cherries.
But hey, gardening is all about the journey, not the destination. So, if you're up for a challenge and want to experiment, go for it! Just don't be too disappointed if your cherry tree ends up looking more like a bonsai than a fruit-bearing giant.
How-To Cherry-Related FAQs
- How to choose the right cherry variety for Houston: Opt for tropical varieties like Cherry of the Rio Grande or Barbados Cherry.
- How to care for cherry trees in Houston: Focus on providing well-draining soil, ample sunlight, and protection from extreme temperatures.
- How to deal with pests and diseases on cherry trees: Regular inspection and proper care can help prevent common problems.
- How to harvest cherries: Timing is crucial. Check for ripeness by taste and color.
- How to enjoy cherries: There are endless possibilities! Eat them fresh, make jams, jellies, or desserts.
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