Choose ripe cherries from a healthy tree or trusted source
Remove the pits and clean off all fruit flesh
Soak the pits in water for 24 hours
Dry the pits briefly on a paper towel
Place the pits in a sealed bag with slightly moist peat moss, sand, or paper towel
Refrigerate the bag at 34–40°F for 10–14 weeks
Check occasionally to keep the medium lightly moist
Remove pits that mold or rot
Plant the chilled pits 1–2 inches deep in well-draining soil after stratification
Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy
Place the pot or planting area in a sunny location
Wait for germination, which may take several weeks to months
Transplant seedlings when they are large enough to handle
Protect young plants from frost, pests, and drought
Grow seedlings in full sun with regular watering and good drainage