Can I grow a cherry tree indoors?

January 2, 2006 8:19 AM

Would there be any problems associated with growing a dwarf cherry tree like this one indoors?

The description says it will do well on a balcony (which I don't have) but doesn't mention indoor growing at all.
Would it attract strange bugs from outside? I don't mind sweeping up after it frequently, and I can give it enough light.

posted by leapingsheep to Home & Garden (4 answers total)

Best answer: If it was watered regularly, fertilized and had plenty of sunlight then it will probably be fine in your house for part of the year. However, the tree will need to be "seasoned" outside unless it is a tropical variety. There is a reason that apples and cherries are primarily grown in parts of the country where there is at least some cold. Most fruit trees, even the ones that are desired just for their flowers, need a period of wintertime dormancy to prepare a new crop of blooms for the next year.
posted by Alison at 8:49 AM on January 2, 2006

Best answer: Also, cherry trees can weep... and their sap, though often a lovely crimson, is damn sticky.
posted by silusGROK at 9:27 AM on January 2, 2006

Response by poster: Two good reasons not to. Thanks for saving me from a dead, sticky tree.
posted by leapingsheep at 9:33 AM on January 2, 2006

What Alison said re cold weather & dormancy.

However, something like a dwarf Meyer lemon tree, or bay laurel, or certain forms of jasmine should do just fine.
posted by vetiver at 9:41 AM on January 2, 2006