How do I know if the cherries on my tree are edible or not?

[IHeartKingThistle]

Without eating them, I mean!

I posted about my cherry tree earlier in the year when it produced two different colours of blossom - here's the next installment! So now it is covered in fruit, smallish cherries but they are ripening to dark red. They look like smaller versions of cherries from the supermarket.

Could it be an eating cherry or is it wishful thinking, do you think? My dad says don't eat them.

Go on have a nibble! Won't hurt you surely

It's be a shame not to try one wouldn't it?
Also, if it doesn't taste so sweet, don't forget you can also get more sour varieties for cooking.

I didn't know that - OK I am going to try one tomorrow and report back. If I don't it has killed me and you two will have to live with it!

Oh dear. Are you poisoned?

I have a cherry tree like this as well so interested to know if Iheart is still alive. Mine is a weeping cherry which is covered in lovely bright red fruit.

Are cherries ever poisonous? I am a bit scared to try them I have to admit.

I tried mine a few years ago -smallish cherries dark red/almost black when ripe - they were quite tasty. Discovered they weren't eating cherries when got stomach gripes later that day (bit like when you eat a cooking apple). I now use them to make cherry pies, jam etc and no problems. would like to know what they are tho, whether sour cherries etc

Not dead! I tried one, it was nice! Slightly more sour than bought ones, so I wouldn't eat a bowl of them, but I bet they'd make great jam. Sorry to keep you in suspense!

Thanks for the responses!