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Can You Grow Cherry in Kentucky?

US · USDA Zone 6b · zones 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a

Grows well here

Cherries grow well here with enough winter chill and full sun — tart varieties are hardier and easier.

Plant zones

4a–9a

Kentucky last frost

mid-March

Kentucky first frost

mid-November

Days to harvest

3–7 years

About Cherry

Cherry trees — sweet or tart — are a classic home orchard choice, but they need cross-pollination and are magnets for birds, so be ready to net the crop.

Plant two compatible varieties for pollination (unless tart/self-fertile). Site in full sun with good air flow. Net ripening fruit against birds. Trees bear in 3-6 years.

Full cherry growing guide →

Gardening in Kentucky

Kentucky has a humid continental climate transitioning to subtropical in the south. Long warm summers support tomatoes, peppers, and most common vegetables. Tobacco country.