Description
Montmorency is the classic American pie cherry, prized for its bright red skin, translucent flesh, and bold, tangy flavor. Perfect for pies, preserves, drying, and juicing, Montmorency also produces excellent fresh-eating cherries for those who enjoy a tart kick. When grown on our Mazzard rootstock, this tree remains notably smaller than standard sour cherry trees, making it easier to prune, net, and manage in the home orchard.
Overview
- America’s most popular pie cherry — bright, tart, and richly flavored.
- Smaller growth habit on Mazzard — more compact than typical Montmorency trees.
- Very cold hardy — reliable production in a wide range of climates.
- Mid-season harvest — usually late June to early July.
- Excellent for cooking and preserving — holds flavor beautifully when baked.
Care & Growing Tips
- Plant in well-drained soil with 1/2 day to full day of sun.
- Water deeply during the establishment period (first 2–3 years).
- Prune in late winter to maintain shape and encourage airflow.
- Bird netting may be needed—tart cherries attract wildlife.
- Self-fruitful — pollinizer not required.
Growing Details
Latin Name: Prunus cerasus
Site and Soil: Well-drained soil; 1/2 day to full day of sun
Hardiness (Temp): -25°F
Bearing Age: 3–4 years after planting
Rootstock: Mazzard — Compact for sour cherries
Size at Maturity: 12–15 ft (smaller than standard Montmorency)
Bloom Time: Mid-spring
Ripening Time: Late June to early July
Yield: Heavy cropping
Pests and Diseases: Monitor for cherry leaf spot, brown rot, fruit fly
USDA Zone: 4–9
Additional Notes
- Montmorency on Mazzard remains smaller and easier to manage than typical sour cherry trees.
- This variety is exceptionally reliable for pies, preserves, and juice.
- Explore more cherry varieties here: Cherry Trees
