The Enchanting World of Flowering Cherry Trees

In this article

Flowering cherry trees are a popular springtime attraction that are admired worldwide for their brief but beautiful displays of pink and white flowers.

Throughout early spring, parks, gardens, and landscapes filled with these ornamental trees transform into scenic floral wonderlands of cherry blossoms.

Whether in Tokyo’s iconic parks or right in your own backyard, learn everything you need to know to successfully grow and care for these stunning flowering trees.

What are Flowering Cherry Trees?

Flowering cherry trees, also commonly called ornamental cherry trees or cherry blossom trees, are cultivated varieties of cherry species that are grown primarily for the aesthetic appeal of their striking and usually fragrant flowers rather than their fruit.

While many flowering varieties come from the Prunus serrulata group of Japanese cherry blossom trees, not all cherry trees suitable for ornamental planting will produce edible cherries.

Flowering Cherry Tree Varieties

Japanese Cherry Blossom Trees (Prunus serrulata)

Kwanzan Cherry

Kwanzan Cherry bloom

One of the most popular weeping cherry varieties, Kwanzan cherries feature large, double pink blooms that reach up to 5 inches wide.

Renowned for their graceful arching habit, Kwanzan trees tend to flower earlier than other cherries in early to mid-spring.

Somei-Yoshino Cherry

Somei-Yoshino Cherry bloom

Somei-Yoshino, known as the “most famous flowering cherry,” produces abundant pink semi-double flowers. As the most widely planted variety in Japan, its peak bloom seasons signals the start of cherry blossom festivals.

Yaezakura Cherry

Yaezakura Cherry bloom

An ornamental variety prized for its pale pink blossoms tinged with white, Yaezakura cherries have a vase-shaped form. Their early spring flowers typically emerge shortly before those of other Prunus serrulata varieties.

Ornamental Cherry Trees (Prunus)

Amur Cherry

Amur cherry bloom

One of the hardest-flowering cherries, Amur cherry trees (Prunus maackii) boast clouds of double white blooms. Their resilience to cold temperatures makes them suitable for planting in zones 3–8.

In case you missed: Growing Black and White Flowers

Planting Flowering Cherry Trees

Planting flowering cherry trees

Proper site selection and planting technique helps ensure your flowering cherry trees thrive for many years.

Site Selection Considerations

The majority of flowering cherry varieties flourish in full sun but can tolerate some afternoon shade. Drainage should be excellent, as wet soils can cause root rot. Allow sufficient space for the tree’s mature height and spread.

Soil Requirements

Cherries generally adapt to most well-draining soils but grow best in loamy, moist soils high in organic matter. Amend clay or compacted soils with organic compost prior to planting.

Planting Guide

Plant bare root or containerized trees in early spring or fall. Dig a saucer-shaped hole twice as wide as the root ball. Remove any pot or burlap before placing the tree in the hole at the same depth it grew. Backfill with native soil and water well.

Staking and Pruning Basics

Newly planted trees may need staking for support. Remove stakes after the first year. Prune only to remove any damaged limbs. Fall cleanup keeps trees neat while allowing blooms to fully develop the following spring.

Dealing with Pests and Diseases

Common issues like aphids, cherry leaf spot, and canker may affect flowering cherries. Integrated pest management practices like balanced pruning and fertilizing help control such problems naturally.

Caring for Flowering Cherry Trees

Caring flowering cherry trees

With some basic care practices, these flowering trees can thrive for many years.

Watering Needs

During establishment, water deeply, 1-2 inches per week if rainfall is inadequate. Established trees only need occasional watering during droughts, as cherries prefer evenly moist but well-drained soil.

Fertilizing and Feeding

In early spring, apply a balanced fertilizer according to label directions to boost bud and leaf development. A multi-purpose granular product works well. Avoid late summer feedings that may delay leaf drop.

Propagation Techniques

Flowering cherries can be propagated from hardwood cuttings in fall or softwood cuttings in spring. Grafting and budding cultivars onto rootstocks also expands home orchards. Plant divisions or air-layering branches for additional landscape specimens.

Winterizing and Protection

Depending on variety and zone, mulching tree bases insulates shallow roots from frost heaving and freezing. Consider covering very young or newly transplanted trees during extreme cold. Prune after winter to shape the tree structure.

Proper ongoing care helps flowering cherry trees remain healthy, resilient to pests and diseases, and rewarding with bountiful blooms for many springs to come.

Enjoying the Blooms

One of the best parts of growing flowering cherry trees is admiring their pretty blooms during the short spring display.

Peak Bloom Times

Depending on variety and location, most cherry trees flower between late March and mid-May. February and October blooming options exist for year-round color too.

Petal Longevity

Cherry blossom flowers typically persist for one to two weeks before fading. Ideal conditions can extend their beauty slightly longer.

Viewing Parties and Festivals

Public parks organize annual hanami festivals to celebrate the ephemera of cherry blossoms through picnics under the blooming canopies.

Arranging and Pressing Flowers

Gently gather just-opened blooms for short-lived indoor arrangements. Cherry petals can also beautifully be preserved in books for collages.

Planting for Year-Round Appearance

Evergreen shrubs and perennials provide a lush backdrop to cherry trees and continue interest when they lose their leaves each fall.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are cherry trees deciduous?

Yes, virtually all flowering cherry trees are deciduous and lose their leaves in autumn. Their graceful branches are left bare until new buds emerge in spring.

How long do cherry trees live?

Well-cared-for cherry trees can live 25–50 years. Some Japanese cultivars may only have a 10-year lifespan. Proper conditions and regular pruning extend their ornamental display.

How do I get my cherry tree to bloom more?

Pruning strategies like thinning cuts encourage more flowering. Fertilizing in spring with nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium promotes robust growth and subsequent bloom production.

Can cherry trees be grown in containers?

Dwarf varieties and columnar cultivars suited for restricted spaces can thrive in pots with a suitable soil mix and regular watering. Containers ensure drainage and prevent root issues in damp spots.

Final Thoughts

Flowering cherry trees are a truly special addition to any landscape, bestowing a fleeting yet breathtaking floral display each spring.

With their historical and cultural significance, varieties suitable for different climate conditions, and ease of home cultivation, cherries make an excellent choice for any garden or public space.

By providing optimal care suited to the specific needs outlined above, your flowering cherry trees will reward you with bountiful cherry blossoms year after year.

I hope this comprehensive guide has helped you select, plant and care for the lovely ornamental trees with carefree success.

1 thought on “The Enchanting World of Flowering Cherry Trees”

  1. With every little thing which appears to be developing inside this particular subject matter, all your opinions are generally somewhat exciting. Having said that, I appologize, because I do not give credence to your whole strategy, all be it stimulating none the less. It looks to everybody that your commentary are not completely rationalized and in reality you are generally your self not really entirely convinced of the argument. In any event I did take pleasure in examining it.

    Reply

Leave a Reply