Rainier cherry trees are renowned for their stunning golden-yellow fruit, accented with a delicate red blush, and their exceptionally sweet, low-acid flavor. Often considered a gourmet cherry, the Rainier cherry tree is perfect for fresh eating, fruit salads, and upscale desserts. For those with limited space, a semi-dwarf Rainier cherry tree offers a compact option without compromising on flavor or appearance. This mid-season variety requires a pollinator, such as Van or Bing, for optimal fruit production. When purchasing a Rainier cherry tree for sale, it’s important to select a healthy tree with a strong root ball to ensure successful planting and growth. Thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, the Rainier cherry tree requires moderate chill hours and is well-suited to regions with colder winters. Its spring blossoms are both productive and ornamental, creating a beautiful display. With its unique appearance, exquisite flavor, and versatility, the Rainier cherry tree—and its semi-dwarf variety—make a premium addition to any home orchard, offering both beauty and delicious fruit.

Semi-dwarf on Maxma rootstock

• Zones: 5-9

• Chill hours: 700-800

• Bloom Time: Mid-season (Based on typical Central Valley California weather)

• Harvest: May 20 - June 10

• Looks: Large, yellow with a red blush. Distinctive yellow flesh.

• Personality: Considered the sweetest of all cherries.

• Facts of note: A more recent introductions, the Rainier is a cross between the popular Bing cherry and the late season intense flavored Van cherry. Introduced in 1952 by Washington State University it did not take long for Rainier to become one of the most popular backyard varieties. Especially in the pacific northwest where it originated. Bright yellow, with pink and red blush cover the white-yellow flesh and one of the highest sugar levels of all premium sweet cherries. Thin skinned, the flavor of the Rainer with its rich sweetness and frim flesh has been the reason it has become one of the most popular sweet cherries. Harvesting in mid June to early July this is a great mid season variety to pear up with the Bing Cherry.

• Pollination: Pollinated by Van, Black Tartarian, Bing or Lapins

The Rainier cherry tree, a stunning and sweet variety, graces gardens with its vibrant fruits. Developed in 1952 at Washington State University, it's a semi-dwarf tree, ideal for Zones 5-9. Let's explore the nuances of cultivating this delectable cherry tree.

Growing Zones and Chill Hours:

• Suited for Zones 5-9, requiring 700-800 chill hours.

• Ideal for mid-season bloom (typical Central Valley California weather).

Planting Cherry Trees

These sweet and flavorful cherries, known for their distinct yellow hue, require careful consideration during the planting process. During the early spring select a sunny location with well-draining soil, ensuring the Ranier Cherry trees receive ample sunlight for optimal fruit production. Plant young trees in a planting hole at the same depth as their nursery container, and provide proper spacing to accommodate their growth.

Harvest and Appearance:

• Harvest spans from May 20 to June 10.

• The Rainier cherry features large, yellow fruit with a striking red blush and yellow flesh.

Personality and Facts:

• Known for its unparalleled sweetness among cherries.

• A cross between the Bing and Van cherries, it boasts one of the highest sugar content levels.

• Developed in 1952, it swiftly gained popularity due to its rich sweetness and firm flesh.

• The thin skin encapsulates the cherry's unique flavor profile, making it a sought-after choice.

• An ideal mid-season variety to complement the Bing Cherry during harvesting in mid-June to early July.

Pollination and Partners:

• Pollinated by different types of cherries including Van, Black Tartarian, Bing, or Lapins, fostering its fruitfulness.

The Rainier cherry tree, with its delightful sweetness and distinctive appearance, stands out as a favored choice among cherry enthusiasts. Its vibrant hues and rich flavor make it a prized addition to orchards and gardens, ensuring a bountiful harvest of delectable fruits.

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Origin:

The Rainier cherry tree, scientifically known as Prunus avium 'Rainier,' is a cultivar of the sweet cherry species, Prunus avium. This luscious fruit tree was first developed at the Washington State University's Irrigated Agriculture Research and Extension Center in Prosser, Washington, in the 1950s. It is named after Mount Rainier, the iconic volcanic peak located in the state of Washington. The Rainier cherry is the result of a crossbreeding between the Bing cherry and the Van cherry, both of which are well-known sweet cherry varieties. This deliberate hybridization aimed to create a cherry with a unique flavor and visual appeal.

Overview of the Rainier Cherry Tree

The Rainier cherry tree, a prized choice among fruit trees, offers delectable golden cherries with a unique red blush and exceptional sweetness. Ideal for USDA Zones 5-9, this new tree thrives in various soil types, especially in well-drained soil, and requires 700-800 chill hours for optimal fruiting wood development. This cherry variety benefits from cross-pollination, although a pollinator is not required, and produces tender, flavorful berries from late spring to early summer. Proper pruning, mulching, and attention to the tree’s trunk, roots, and branches ensure a bountiful harvest that’s perfect for fresh eating, canning, and other culinary uses. With careful care, including protection from rain and freezing temperatures, the Rainier cherry tree will stand strong in your garden, ripening to perfection under the sun. Explore our Rainier cherry trees for sale to elevate your fruit production and enjoy a stunning addition to your landscape.

Why Rainier Cherries Are a Must-Have

Rainier cherry trees are a must-have for any garden or landscape, offering not only stunning golden cherries with a distinctive red blush but also an unmatched sweetness that makes them a prized sweet cherry variety. This cherry tree thrives in USDA zones 5-9, requiring specific chill hours and well-draining soil to produce fruit that delights the taste buds in early summer. For those looking to grow a tree that reaches new heights in flavor and beauty, the Rainier cherry tree for sale is the ideal choice, ensuring a bountiful harvest and a stunning addition to any garden.

Look and Taste of the Fruit:

Rainier cherries are instantly recognizable by their striking appearance. They are medium to large in size and feature a translucent, golden-yellow to pale red skin. The coloration is reminiscent of a sunrise, with a pinkish blush and hints of yellow. This aesthetic beauty sets the Rainier cherry apart from other cherry varieties, making it a sought-after choice for both consumers and growers.

When it comes to taste, Rainier cherries are celebrated for their exceptional sweetness and delicate flavor profile. They are known to be much sweeter than traditional red cherries, with a sugar content that can reach up to 20 Brix or more. The flesh of the Rainier cherry is juicy, tender, and practically melts in your mouth. Its flavor combines subtle notes of honey, vanilla, and almond, providing a delightful contrast to the tartness of some other cherry varieties. The unique blend of sweetness and mildness makes Rainier cherries a favored option for fresh consumption, as well as for use in various culinary applications, such as desserts, preserves, and cocktails.

Special Growing Conditions:

Growing cherry trees has never been easier. You can grow cherries masterfully with our guidance. Cultivating Rainier cherry trees requires specific care and attention to ensure a bountiful harvest of these precious fruits. Here are some key considerations for successful Rainier cherry tree cultivation:

• Climate: Rainier cherry trees thrive in regions with a Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers. They require a certain number of chill hours (around 700-800) during the winter to break dormancy and set fruit.

• Soil: Well-draining, loamy soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0) are ideal for Rainier cherry trees. Good soil preparation is crucial to ensure proper root development and nutrient uptake.

• Sunlight: Rainier cherry trees require full sun exposure for at least 6 to 8 hours a day. Adequate sunlight ensures healthy growth and high-quality fruit production.

• Pruning and Training: Pruning is essential to maintain tree structure, encourage airflow, and promote fruit production. Rainier cherry trees are typically trained to an open-center or modified central leader system to facilitate light penetration.

• Irrigation: Consistent and deep watering is essential, especially during the growing season and fruit development. Proper irrigation helps prevent issues like cracking and split fruit. A well draining soil will help to prevent root rot.

• Pest and Disease Management: Regular monitoring and management of common pests and diseases, such as aphids, cherry fruit fly, and brown rot, are necessary to protect the Rainier cherry crop.

The Rainier cherry tree is a marvel of fruit cultivation, offering a visual feast with its golden-yellow cherries and a taste sensation with its exceptional sweetness and nuanced flavor. Originating from Washington State University, this cherry variety requires specific growing conditions to thrive, making it a favorite among cherry enthusiasts and growers alike. Whether enjoyed fresh or incorporated into various culinary delights, these sweet cherry trees remain a cherished jewel in the world of fruit cultivation.

Summary

Our Rainier cherry tree for sale offers gardeners the opportunity to grow one of the sweetest and most visually striking cherries available. This new tree thrives in USDA zones 5-9, requiring well-drained soil and careful pruning to develop strong fruiting wood and healthy roots. With the right cross-pollination and climate conditions, these trees produce golden-yellow cherries with a red blush that ripen to perfection under the sun, making them a stunning and fruitful addition to any garden or orchard.

Why Buy From Us

At our store, you’ll find premium Rainier cherry trees for sale, ready to elevate your garden with their exquisite golden cherries and exceptional sweetness. Our Rainier cherry trees are expertly cultivated to thrive in USDA Zones 5-9, ensuring they flourish with proper chill hours and well-draining soil. Choose us for your fruit trees, and enjoy a seamless planting experience with our high-quality stock, knowledgeable support, and prompt shipping. Transform your garden into a paradise of delectable fruit and vibrant blooms—shop now and bring home your Rainier cherry tree today!