Edible gardening is a rewarding hobby, and growing your own cherries is a particularly delightful endeavor. The sweet or tart flavor of home - grown cherries can be a real treat, but knowing when to harvest them is crucial. In this article, we'll explore the signs that indicate your cherries are ready for picking, along with some tips on how to pick and store them properly.

### Knowing When Cherries are Ready for Harvesting

One of the first things to consider when determining cherry readiness is the color. Different cherry varieties have distinct color profiles at maturity. For example, sweet cherries like Bing cherries typically turn a deep, rich red or almost black when they are ripe. Tart cherries, such as Montmorency, will have a bright red color that is more vivid than when they are unripe. However, color alone is not always a fool - proof indicator. You also need to consider the firmness of the fruit.

To check the firmness, gently squeeze the cherry. Ripe cherries should be plump and firm, but not too hard. If they are too soft, they may be overripe and could start to spoil quickly. On the other hand, if they are too hard, they are not yet ready for harvest. Another way to test for ripeness is to taste a sample. This is especially useful if you are growing a new variety and are not entirely sure what to expect. Just make sure to sample from different parts of the tree, as cherries on the outside may ripen faster than those on the inside.

The stem of the cherry can also provide clues about its ripeness. A ripe cherry will have a stem that is easily detached from the tree. If the stem is difficult to pull off, the cherry may still be under - ripe. Additionally, look at the overall appearance of the cherry. It should be free from blemishes, bruises, and signs of disease. Any damaged cherries should be removed from the tree to prevent the spread of problems to other fruits.

### Tips for Picking Cherries

When it comes time to pick your cherries, it's important to use the right technique. First, make sure you have a clean and sturdy container to collect the cherries. A shallow basket or a tray works well, as it prevents the cherries from being crushed under their own weight. To pick the cherries, grasp the stem gently between your thumb and forefinger and give it a slight twist. The cherry should come off the tree easily, with the stem still attached. Leaving the stem on the cherry helps to keep it fresh for longer.

It's best to pick cherries in the morning when the temperatures are cooler. This helps to preserve the flavor and texture of the fruit. Avoid picking cherries when they are wet, such as after a rain shower, as this can increase the risk of mold and spoilage. As you pick, be careful not to damage the branches or the remaining cherries on the tree. If you need to reach higher branches, use a ladder or a picking pole, but make sure to do so safely.

### Storing Your Home - Grown Cherries

Once you've picked your cherries, proper storage is essential to keep them fresh. Start by sorting through the cherries and removing any damaged or overripe ones. Then, rinse the cherries gently under cool water and pat them dry with a clean towel. Do not wash the cherries until you are ready to eat them, as excess moisture can cause them to spoil faster.

Store the cherries in the refrigerator in a plastic bag or a container with a lid. You can line the container with a paper towel to absorb any excess moisture. Cherries can typically be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store them for a longer period, you can freeze them. To freeze cherries, remove the stems and pits (if desired), place them in a single layer on a baking sheet, and freeze them until solid. Then, transfer the frozen cherries to a freezer - safe bag or container. Frozen cherries can be used in a variety of recipes, such as pies, jams, and smoothies.

In conclusion, growing and harvesting your own cherries is a wonderful way to enjoy the fruits of your labor. By knowing when to harvest, using the right picking techniques, and storing the cherries properly, you can ensure that you have a delicious supply of home - grown cherries for weeks to come. So, get out there, tend to your cherry trees, and look forward to the sweet or tart rewards of your edible gardening efforts.