How to Grow Early Burlat Cherry
Early Burlat Cherry
Prunus avium 'Early Burlat'
treeEarly Burlat is a sweet cherry cultivar known for being one of the earliest-ripening cherries, producing large, dark red fruits with excellent flavor. This self-fertile or partially self-fertile variety is a premium choice for home gardeners seeking early-season harvests. The tree grows to medium size with a spreading habit and attractive spring blossoms.
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Example Early Burlat Cherry timeline · Pittsburgh, PA (Zone 6b)
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Plant Early Burlat Cherry
Around Apr 17Near Pittsburgh's average last spring frost.
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Tend & protect
Late spring–summerWatering, feeding, and pest-watch reminders.
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Harvest Early Burlat Cherry
Late summer into fallBefore the first fall frost (≈ Nov 8)
Sample dates for Pittsburgh, PA. Sign up to get exact Early Burlat Cherry dates for your own zip code.
Growing Conditions
Soil
Growing Zones
Find your zone →Thrives in zones 5-8, with cold hardiness down to zone 4b
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Get my Early Burlat Cherry timeline →Growth Stages
Establishment
1-2 yearsYoung tree developing root system and branch framework. Minimal fruiting expected.
Stake for support in first 1-2 years. Prune to establish central leader or open vase form. Keep well-watered. Remove any flower buds in first year to redirect energy to growth.
Vegetative Growth
2-3 yearsTree strengthens with vigorous shoot growth and expanded canopy. Occasional flowering may occur.
Continue structural pruning. Apply dormant oil spray in late winter. Monitor for pests. Thin or remove early flowers to encourage tree establishment.
Flowering
2-3 weeksAbundant white blossoms appear in mid-spring (late March to April depending on zone). Flowers are self-fertile but cross-pollination with compatible varieties increases yield.
Ensure adequate chilling hours (600-900 hours below 45°F) have been met. Protect from late spring frosts if possible. Monitor for pest activity during bloom.
Fruit Development & Ripening
6-8 weeksSmall green fruits develop and gradually enlarge. Cherries mature to dark red (nearly black) color. Early Burlat typically ripens 2-3 weeks before Bing cherry.
Thin fruit clusters to 1 fruit every 3-4 inches for larger cherries. Water consistently—irregular watering causes fruit cracking. Provide bird netting if birds are problematic. Apply calcium spray if susceptible to cracking.
Harvest & Dormancy
Harvest 2-4 weeks; dormancy 4-5 monthsRipe fruit ready for picking in early June (depending on location). After harvest, tree enters dormancy in fall.
Pick cherries when fully colored and slightly soft. Prune after harvest to maintain shape and remove any dead/diseased wood. Apply dormant oil and fungicide in late fall/early winter.
Companion Planting
Plan your garden →Plant with:
Avoid planting near:
Common Pests
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Yellow sticky traps in late May/June; remove infected fruit promptly; apply spinosad or organophosphate insecticide at petal fall and 10 days later
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Spray neem oil or insecticidal soap when sluglike larvae appear; encourage natural parasites
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Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; neem oil; attract beneficial insects
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Hand-pick during early morning; apply kaolin clay; use pheromone traps away from tree; avoid traps near tree as they attract beetles
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Apply sulfur or copper fungicide in spring; remove infected leaves; improve air circulation; avoid overhead watering
Uses
Fresh Eating & Premium Desserts
CulinaryEarly Burlat cherries are prized for fresh eating with exceptional sweetness and firm texture. Ideal for cherry tarts, clafoutis, and elegant plated desserts. [source]
Preserving & Jam Making
CulinaryLarge, firm fruits make excellent candidates for canning, jamming, and preserving. The natural pectin and acidity allow for both traditional and modern preservation methods. [source]
Antioxidant & Anti-inflammatory Properties
MedicinalCherries contain high levels of anthocyanins and polyphenols known to reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health. Often used in teas, juices, and wellness preparations. [source]
Natural Food Coloring & Dyes
HouseholdThe deep red pigments from cherry fruit and leaves can produce natural food colorings and textile dyes without synthetic additives. [source]
Pollinator & Bird Habitat
WildlifeSpring blossoms provide early nectar for bees and emerging pollinators. Ripe fruit attracts birds and wildlife, making it valuable for ecological gardens. [source]
This is not medical advice. LizPlants is not a medical resource. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using plants medicinally.
Harvest Tips
Early Burlat cherries ripen in early June (typically week 1-2 of June in most zones). Pick by hand when fully dark red and slightly yielding to gentle pressure. Ripe fruit will separate easily from the stem. Harvest in the morning for best flavor. Handle gently to avoid bruising. Refrigerate promptly; cherries keep 1-2 weeks at 32°F. Can be picked slightly early and allowed to ripen at room temperature for 1-2 days if needed.
Fun Facts
- 🌱 Early Burlat is one of the earliest sweet cherry cultivars to ripen, often 2-3 weeks ahead of the classic Bing cherry, making it a favorite for extending the cherry season.
- 🌱 The cultivar originated in France and is sometimes called 'Précoce d'Annonay' in French-speaking regions; it was selected specifically for its early ripening trait.
- 🌱 Cherry wood is highly valued for smoking meats and foods—Early Burlat prunings produce excellent smoking chips that impart a sweet, mild flavor.
Gardening Terms
New to gardening? Learn about terms used in this guide:
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