How to plant chokecherries

    The Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana) plants are shrubs that grow well and are easy to maintain in large containers. Its white, aromatic flowers form beautiful cylindrical bouquets that measure between 3 and 6 inches. Chokecherries planted in containers are ideal to decorate patios and terraces. They produce berries of an intense red color, almost purple, and they can be used to make jellies, marmalades, and juices. The berries can be bitter, and the seeds have to be taken out during preparation since they are poisonous. Planting chokecherries is a good way to help out your local wildlife since birds and other creatures benefit from eating the berries and seek shelter in the shrubs.

    The chokecherry is a large shrub and can grow to a width of 20 feet. When it’s planted in containers it doesn’t grow as big and can grow up to a height of 12 feet. When you plant chokecherries make sure you place it in an area with enough space for it to grow. It doesn’t need much water and can grow in any type of soil.

    Instructions

  • During the fall, plant your chokecherry in a large container with good drainage and enough sunlight.
  • You can use any type of soil for this plant; just make sure it is not too acidic or too alkaline.
  • At the beginning, maintain the soil moist, but as the shrub starts to grow water less frequently. This plant doesn’t need much water.
  • In containers, plants sometimes receive limited nutrients, use some fertilizer of compost in the container to help your plant be healthier and produce more fruits.
  • Be patient during the winter, your chokecherry will bloom in the spring.
  • If you’d like to know more about chokecherries, follow this link.