The weeping cherry tree comes in many varieties of various shapes and sizes and colors. It has become one of the most popular and most sought for trees by individuals who want to plant trees. The elegance and grace displayed by this tree have made it beloved by gardeners and onlookers alike more so in the spring when it begins to bloom and produce its beautiful flowers.
In spring, when blooming begins for this amazing tree, the branches which form a pendulum shape become covered with endearing white or pink flowers which definitely catch the eyes of both the owners and the neighbors.
The height of the weeping cherry tree ranges from a dwarf size of 2 meters to an outstanding size of 12 meters with large canopies that are spread out large.
How To Plant Weeping Cherry Tree
While it is not a very hard or difficult task to learn the growing tips and process for the weeping cherry tree, but utilizing the knowledge obtained by proper planting and cultivation is the most important thing.
Ensure that the weeping cherries are planted in a hole deep enough to contain the root ball, but wider by the root ball twice or thrice. Then, when the root ball has been placed in the hole, make use of any tools available such as a yardstick to be sure the trunks’ base has become level with the soil.
Since soil amendments only support the roots staying in the hole, adding soil amendments to the hole or the backfill dirt should not be done because the roots are meant to be spread into the surrounding soil. All that needs to be done is simply to fill the hole created with soil while ensuring to prevent air packets by using your foot to press down the soil. Next, fill into the top with water when the hole is half-filled with soil. Make sure the water completely drains off the soil, this is because well-drained soil is very important in caring for weeping cherries, it also helps to avoid rot in the tree. After making sure the water has drained, completely fill the hole with soil finally. You could decide to stake the tree or not. But staking the tree is not really necessary, but if it is done ensure the stakes are completely removed after a year.
Just as well-drained water is essential for the growth of the weeping cherry trees to prevent rot, adequate air circulation around the canopy of the tree is important and helps prevent diseases. So it is very paramount to have the bigger picture in mind and foresee how big the cultivated tree might grow and then make sure enough space is given between the planted tree and structures or other trees as well so d branches won’t have to be cut short.
How To Care And Manage A Weeping Cherry Tree
Watering is an essential aspect of caring for and maintaining a weeping cherry tree. Weeping cherry trees do not tolerate heat or extremely dry conditions and so, they will not do well in those kinds of situations. Remember to water regularly at least twice a week especially during the warm season and slowly so as to afford the water to get deep into the soil and touch the roots. If one does not have the time to water regularly, it’s also advisable to add about 5 to 10 centimeters of organic mulch layers around the base of the tree so the moisture can be retained and regular watering will not be required.
As mentioned earlier, Weeping cherry trees do not do well in dry environments or areas, they require a minimum of about 80 gallons of water weekly to grow well. It is also important to allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent the root from rotting. On the other hand, if these weeping cherry trees do not receive adequate water supply, their flowers will not be as luxuriant as it should be when it is time to bloom.
During the winter season, leave the roots to rest, and don’t water the tree. The weeping cherry enters a dormancy period where it recovers from the stress of the growing season. If you either water or fertilize your tree during this period, it could lead to a change in the method of growth of the tree and it may fail to produce flowers the following season.
The long, graceful, and elegant branches of the weeping cherry trees do not have to be pruned. Most people make the mistake of pruning the branches of this tree and this is very wrong. The tree has the natural ability to form its magnificent shape and should never be pruned except some branches are diseased, damaged, or even dead. Immediately these abnormal branches are discovered, they should be removed with immediate effect even if it is not the time of the year when pruning is done. Another reason that may be accepted for pruning a weeping cherry tree is if two branches cross with each other and keep rubbing on themselves. It could lead to a wound on their barks that could serve as an entrance for insects, pests, and diseases. One of these branches could be pruned during winter when the tree has become dormant.
Transplanting a weeping cherry tree without the needed helo, skill and expertise will lead to a terrible disaster. This is because the roots and foliage have been stressed and this might lead to their death as they wilt away slowly. Also for young plants, regular observation of the growth rate is important else, as many other gardeners have noticed, they will begin to wilt and die as well.
When planting a weeping cherry tree out in the open, the tree is likely to do well since it does better in the full sun or under partial shade than in full shade. It also prefers a soil pH that is slightly acidic and does not retain a lot of water and becomes waterlogged to prevent disease affecting the roots of the tree.
Using a slow-release fertilizer in early spring just as the leaves begin to produce their buds in preparation for blooming and flower production is a very great idea. A very good and effective slow-release fertilizer is natural compost. But in case compost cannot be found at that period, some other commercial products labeled for flowering trees and shrubs could be used or applied in place of it. Tree spikes are very expensive for the amount of fertilizer contained in each spike, and they don’t release fertilizer at a steady rate. Also remember that weeping cherries enjoy light, loamy, and airy soils with excellent drainage. If planting in a pot, then add a few handfuls of perlite and compost to a standard potting mix and watch as your plant grows.