Good plant, mediocre results — what went wrong with my Cherry Tree

Cherry Tree is clearly a great plant — I can see that from other people's results. Mine has been decent but not spectacular, and I think I know why.

I underestimated the importance of checking and adjusting tree ties and stakes annually in the early stages and paid for it. fireblight bacterial disease affecting pears and apples also knocked the plant back at a critical point. It lives in a specimen tree as a garden focal point which is probably not quite right but it's the best I can do in my space. long productive lifespan of decades with good management is visible but muted. winter pruning while the tree is dormant gave me hope — there are glimpses of what it could be. Three stars for now with potential for four.