The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Japanese flowering cherry trees(Prunus serrulataspp.)
are ornamental deciduous trees grown for their beautiful pinkish-red blossoms during the spring months.
However, the tree can also tolerate partial shade.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Ideal soil will make this plant less susceptible to the many fungal diseases that can plague the species.
Water
Japanese flowering cherry prefers plenty of moistureat least 1 inch per week.
Once well-established, Japanese flowering cherry will tolerate short droughts.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
To fertilize organically, back-fill with somecompostwhen planting and top-dress periodically thereafter, watering the nutrients into the soil.
There are several common award-winning cultivars ofP.
If you should probably prune, do so after the tree flowers.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Always sterilize your cutting tools after each cut.
The shape, size, and overall vigorousness can be quite different than your parent plant.
Cuttings should be taken from semi-hardwood branches during the summer months.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Thus, propagating by seed is not an option.
Such plants can make excellent patio specimens.
Repotting will be difficult, so start with the largest container possible.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Some experts recommend replacing a good portion of the potting soil every two to three years.
Feed the plant with a good controlled-release fertilizer each spring.
A potted tree will need to be watered regularlyseveral times a week in hot weather.
The Spruce / Evgeniya Vlasova
Overwintering
Over much of their hardiness range, Japanese flowering cherries require no winter protection.
In fact, their susceptibility to a number of pests makes most specimens short-lived.
Peachtree borers are a notable pest problem for cherry trees.
it’s possible for you to use spray pesticides formulated for peachtree borer to treat current infestations.
Consult your local Extension service for diagnosis and solution recommendations in your area.
The best blooms are produced by trees growing in a favorable location with plenty of sunlight and well-draining soil.
How Long Do Japanese Flowering Cherry Trees Bloom?
Japanese flowering cherry trees typically bloom for about two weeks at a time in the spring.
What Do Japanese Flowering Cherry Flowers Look and Smell Like?
The flowers grow in clusters all throughout the tree, making for a spectacular display.
Japanese flowering cherry trees can experience a few different issues that impede blooming.
Affected leaves and blossoms should be raked up and destroyed.
This isn’t a serious problem, as the tree will probably bloom just fine the next year.
Branches that die back should be removed.
Bark Splitting
A significant problem is bark-splitting, whereby large cracks emerge in the trunk.
Such a crack can allow organisms to enter and subsequently cause decay.
This will prevent the crack from expanding.
If the tree is otherwise healthy, the area should callus over to prevent disease.
Gummy Residue Around Trunk
This is often an indication that the tree is fighting peach tree borers.
You may also see wounds and cankers on the trunk of the tree when borers are attacking.
Ragged Holes in Leaves
This is usually caused whenJapanese beetlesare feeding on the foliage.
One effective method of control is to use pyrethrin-based insecticides.
Horticultural soaps can also be effective, though app on a full-sized tree can be problematic.
There are cases of well-cared-for trees lasting 50 years or more, but this is rare.
Smaller cultivars can make good potted trees.
Toxic Plants (by Common Name).University of California Agriculture, and Natural Resources.
Insect Pests | Edible Landscapes.
The Ohio State University.
Accessed August 11, 2021.
