When do cherry trees grow branches

[simon12]

I planted 2 1 year maidens in December and both are just leafy sticks still, a bit like a feather duster. I cannot see anything currently that looks like it will become a branch. Should I? If not when should I? Both on Gisela 5 roots 1 Lapins 1 Napolen.

[Kirk]

As you have leaves I should not worry.
Never actually watched mine but it would make (hopefully) some sense for the branches to develop after the leaves have established themselves. It is the leaves that create the sugars etc from which the tree builds itself.

Roots are basically for water, support and trace minerals, but the growing stuff is very much dependant of the leaves creating the chemicals by photosynthesis.

On that basis I would guess a couple of months.

[simon12]

Thanks for the answer it just looks strange having a stick with leaves and no branches

[orangepippin]

Did you cut the tops off the trees after planting - the supplier will probably have asked you to do this? It helps the tree establish and encourages side shoots to develop.

[simon12]

Yes thanks orangepippin I think it was done partly on your advice in a older thread.

[Paulieb]

The tree will begin to grow branches from the top few buds (where the leaves originally sprouted from). It really is quite clever when you begin to notice it happening.

You might be able to see what I mean if you have any currants, which for me have about 3 or 4 inches of new growth already (particularly on my Jostaberry which is quite vigorous).

I bought a 1yr maiden cherry on Gisela 5 rootstock this year and that currently only has leaves on.