Growing Zones for Cherries

By Bill Dugan, Executive Editor

Recommended Growing Zones for Cherries

Cherries thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 4-9, depending on the variety. They require cold dormancy (chilling hours) to produce fruit, making them best suited for regions with cool winters.

Examples of Growing Zones by State:

Zone 4-6 (Cold Climates, Best for Sweet & Tart Cherries):
- Michigan, Wisconsin, New York, Pennsylvania, Montana
Zone 6-7 (Moderate Climates, Good for Both Cherry Types):
- Virginia, Missouri, Oregon, Kentucky, Maryland
Zone 8-9 (Warm Climates, Best for Low-Chill Varieties):
- California, Texas, Georgia, Florida (limited varieties)

Cherry Varieties by Climate:

Sweet Cherries (Prunus avium) – Zones 5-9
- Examples: Bing, Rainier, Stella
- Best grown in moderate to warm climates with mild winters.
Tart Cherries (Prunus cerasus) – Zones 4-8
- Examples: Montmorency, North Star
- More cold-hardy, ideal for northern states with harsh winters.
Low-Chill Cherries – Zones 7-9
- Examples: Minnie Royal, Royal Lee
- Suitable for warmer areas like California & Texas.

Can You Grow Cherries Indoors?

Yes, but it’s challenging to grow cherry trees indoors due to their need for cold dormancy and space. However, dwarf cherry trees or bush cherries can be grown in large pots with proper care:

Choose a dwarf variety (e.g., Stella or Compact Stella).
Use a deep container (at least 15-20 gallons) with drainage holes.
Provide 6-8 hours of direct sunlight or use grow lights.
Simulate winter dormancy by keeping the tree in a cold garage or refrigerator (30-45°F) for 2-3 months.
Hand-pollinate indoors if necessary, as cherries usually require cross-pollination.

For easier indoor growing, consider dwarf bush cherries like the Carmine Jewel or Nanking cherry, which are more adaptable to pots.

Check out the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone Map and find out what zone your zip code is located in here. Or you can use our map to get a general idea of what your plant hardiness zone is.

USDA Hardiness Map