History: Windsor sweet cherries originated on the farm of James Dougall in the 1800s and introduced in 1871. His farm was located in Windsor, Ontario and the variety was named after the area.
Why We Grow It: Windsor produces large bright red fruit with firm, flavourful flesh. Along with being great for fresh eating, it is one of the very best for canning.
Canadian Hardiness Zone: 5
Soil Preference: Sandy loam, loam, clay loam. Prefers average to moist conditions with well-drained soils, avoid planting anywhere that floods for more than two weeks in the spring.
Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Vigorous with an upright growth habit, heavy cropper. Resistant to brown rot.
Sun/Shade: Full sun (approx. 8-10 hours of sun daily)
Pollination: Requires a pollinator of a different cherry variety that blooms around the same time. Sweet and Sour cherries cannot be relied upon to pollinate each other.
Flowering Time: Middle
Ripens: Late July
Storage: Keeps about 1-2 weeks in the fridge.
Recommended Use: Fresh eating, canning
Size including roots:
- 1m+ Whip grade: 100cm+
- Branched grade: 100 cm+ with 3 or more branches, 30 cm or more
- <1m Whip grade: less than 100 cm