Question
QUESTION: I have seeds from a cherry tree & just discovered I have to freeze them first before starting their growth.  How long do I freeze? How do I start them (in what soil type).  And will they bear the same fruit as original tree?  I live in Iowa. Thank you

ANSWER: Hi Mary,
Thanx for your question. I have previously posted the answer to this question and there are a number of references in the Browse Past Answers tab.  You should not freeze the seed.  You can plant them in a pot and leave them outdoors but if using the refrigerator method, you only put the seed of regular potting soil about an inch deep, seal inside a plastic bag and leave it in the fridge for about 3 months.  If putting the pot outdoors just make sure it is watered periodically so it does not dry out.  The vast majority of fruit sold in US groceries stores is the result of many decades of hybridization.  Your cherry seeds will most likely yield a tree and fruit which do not resemble the parent plants and most likely will result in an inferior plant and fruit.  That's why the hybridizers graft selections onto hardy root stock.  When you go to the nursery, the hybrid trees have been grafted onto a very hardy rootstock.  For Iowa, be sure to check that the variety is hardy there.  Some cherries will not grow in Zones 4 or 5.  I hope this helps.
Tom

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QUESTION: Tom:  I did not buy the cherries in a grocery store that I took the pits from.  They were given to me by a seed cultivator and were taken from his trees.  Does this make any difference as to the quality of the tree and fruit?  The trees are located in Sumner, Iowa and produce great fruit.  I think zone 4.  I will put them in pots now and put outdoors.  Thanks for your help.  Mary

Answer
Hi Mary,

There are varieties of open pollinated cherry trees also known as heirloom or heritage fruit trees that will come true from seed.  The Seed Savers Exchange in Decorah, Iowa specialize in preserving these old and pure varieties of fruit trees.  If you obtained seed from trees which are established trees and growing well in Iowa then you have a hardy variety.  I can't tell you whether or not they are open pollinated.  Did you ask the seed cultivator?  Perhaps he knows the variety.  If you can find out the variety perhaps I can give you better information.  I hope this helps.
Tom