Rootstock

• Nurseries propagate dwarf tree varieties by grafting them onto rootstock. The growth rate and overall size of the cherry trees is dependent on the type of rootstock used. The nursery chooses rootstock that is compatible for your climate and soil conditions. Some rootstock varieties provide resistance to diseases that plague cherries.
  
  

Branched Trees

• Branched trees are those that the nursery has pruned to encourage maximum growth. Their faster growth provides you with a more abundant crop of cherries, and at several years sooner than other dwarf cherry trees, according to the Fast Growing Trees website. Trees that are not branched, simply have a center whip but no branches.
  
  

Sweet Cherry Trees

• Sweet cherry trees are more vigorous then their tart cousins. They grow faster, taller and spread wider. Dwarf Bing grows from 3 to 4 feet per year. Dwarf Black Tartarion averages 3 feet growth every year until maturity.
  
  

Tart Cherry Trees

• The Dwarf North Star and Rainier varieties grow from 2 to 3 feet per year. These ornamental trees grace your garden with lovely foliage when not producing fruit.