Cherry ‘Regina’ – Large, Glossy Cherries with Outstanding Flavor and Reliability
Cherry ‘Regina’ is a premium late-season sweet cherry variety valued for its exceptionally large, deep red fruit and excellent resistance to splitting. Developed in Germany, this modern cultivar combines superb eating quality with reliable harvests, making it an excellent choice for home gardeners and small orchards alike. With spring blossom, tidy growth, and high-quality fruit, ‘Regina’ offers beauty and performance in equal measure.
Seasonal Beauty & Growth
Spring:
In mid-spring, Cherry ‘Regina’ is covered in abundant clusters of pure white blossoms. These flowers are highly attractive to bees and other pollinators, creating a bright and elegant display while setting the stage for a strong fruit crop.
Summer:
As the season progresses, large green cherries develop and gradually deepen in color. By mid to late summer, the fruits ripen to a rich, glossy dark red. The firm flesh and excellent skin strength make ‘Regina’ particularly resistant to cracking, even during wet weather.
Autumn:
After harvest, the foliage often takes on soft yellow tones before falling, adding a gentle autumn accent to the garden.
Winter:
In winter, the tree’s neat, well-balanced framework remains attractive and manageable, ideal for both trained and free-standing forms.
Structure & Form
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Cherry ‘Regina’ typically grows to 3.5–4.5 meters, depending on rootstock.
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It has an upright to spreading habit with strong, well-spaced branches.
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Suitable for growing as a bush tree, pyramid, fan, or on a dwarfing rootstock for smaller gardens.
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Its naturally tidy shape makes training and pruning straightforward.
Perfect for Various Landscapes
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Home Orchards: A top choice for gardeners seeking high-quality dessert cherries.
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Small to Medium Gardens: Can be grown on dwarf or semi-dwarf rootstocks to suit limited space.
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Walls & Fences: Ideal for fan training in sunny, sheltered positions.
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Mixed Fruit Gardens: Combines well with other stone fruits like plums and apricots.
Growing Conditions & Care
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Position: Full sun in a sheltered spot for best fruit quality and sweetness.
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Soil: Prefers fertile, well-drained soil; avoid waterlogged conditions.
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Hardiness: Hardy, with good tolerance to cooler climates.
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Pollination: Not self-fertile. Requires a compatible pollinator such as ‘Kordia’, ‘Lapins’, or ‘Sweetheart’.
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Maintenance: Prune in summer to reduce disease risk and maintain shape. Netting is recommended to protect fruit from birds.
Why Choose Cherry ‘Regina’?
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Exceptionally Large Fruit: Among the largest sweet cherries available.
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Firm, Juicy Flesh: Excellent fresh-eating quality with rich, sweet flavor.
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Crack Resistance: Performs well even in wet summers.
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Late Ripening: Extends the cherry season into mid–late summer.
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Reliable Cropping: Consistent yields once established.
Perfect Plant Combinations
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Pollinator Cherries: Plant with ‘Kordia’ or ‘Lapins’ to ensure good fruit set.
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Underplanting: Low-growing herbs like thyme or chamomile to attract pollinators.
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Other Fruit Trees: Pair with apples or pears for staggered harvests.
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Shrubs: Combine with currants or gooseberries for a productive fruit garden.
Cherry ‘Regina’ is a standout modern cherry—combining beauty, resilience, and outstanding fruit quality. For gardeners looking to enjoy large, luxurious cherries with minimal fuss, ‘Regina’ is a superb and rewarding choice.
Guide to Planting Field-Grown Root Balled Plants
Pros:
- Established Roots: Typically stronger, established roots ensure better initial growth.
- Immediate Impact: Larger plants provide instant structure and aesthetics.
Cons:
- Heavy and Bulky: Can be difficult to transport and plant due to size and weight.
- Seasonal Availability: Generally available only in the dormant season (autumn to early spring).
Preparation for Planting:
- Unwrap Carefully: Remove any packaging material, but leave the burlap or wire basket on.
- Keep plants moist: Plants should be kept moist until the time of planting.
Planting Process:
- Dig a Hole: Make a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth.
- Position Plant: Place the root ball in the hole, ensuring the top is level with the ground surface.
- Do Not Remove Root Sack: Leave the burlap or wire basket around the root ball. It is bio degradable and will rot away naturally.
- Backfill: Fill the hole with soil, firming gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
- Water: Water deeply after planting to settle the soil and avoid wilting.
Possibility of Losses:
- Initial Shock: Some plants may suffer transplant shock, leading to potential losses.
- Mitigation: Proper care and consistent watering during the establishment phase can minimise this risk.
Main Causes of Failure:
- Improper Planting Depth: Planting too deep or too shallow can stress the roots.
- Poor Soil Conditions: Compacted or poorly drained soil can hinder root growth.
- Insufficient Watering: Both under-watering and over-watering can lead to plant stress and failure. Strong wind can dry leafy pants.
- Pest and Disease: Lack of protection and monitoring can result in damage from pests and diseases.
Tips for Success:
- Stake Larger Plants: Support with stakes to prevent wind damage.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture and regulate temperature.
- Regular Monitoring: Check for signs of stress, pests, and disease, and address them promptly.
By following these guidelines and providing consistent aftercare, you can successfully plant and establish field-grown root balled plants in your garden.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.
