The Ruby Early cherry variety is a tall, fast-growing tree with a dense, spherical crown, reaching up to 4.5 meters in height. This Ukrainian selection is distinguished by its early ripening — harvest begins at the end of May, making it one of the earliest cherry varieties. Fruit production occurs on the 3rd to 4th year after planting. Ruby Early is self-sterile and requires pollinators, such as the varieties Valeriy Chkalov and Priusadobnaya. The tree prefers sunny areas with fertile, light loamy or clay soils that are well-drained and moisture-retentive. It is important to avoid areas with shallow groundwater, as cherries do not tolerate waterlogging.
The fruits of the Ruby Early cherry have a deep, rich red color, a broad-heart-shaped form, and an average weight of 5 to 7 grams. The flesh is tender, juicy, and firm, with a refreshing sweet-tart flavor, and the stone is small and easily separates from the flesh. The skin is thin, dense, and dark red, almost black. Thanks to its excellent flavor, the fruits are ideal for fresh consumption and can also be used for making compotes and jams.
The variety is highly winter-hardy and drought-resistant, allowing it to be successfully grown in various climatic conditions. For optimal growth and fruiting, annual formative pruning in early spring before bud break is recommended, as cherries exhibit vigorous shoot growth. Planting is best done in spring in planting holes 55–60 cm deep and 75–80 cm wide, avoiding deep planting and excessive fertilization to prevent excessive shoot growth. Ruby Early cherry is a high-yielding, disease-resistant variety, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who value early harvests and exceptional fruit flavor.
