Double Weeping Cherry trees (botanical name Prunus subhirtella) are popular ornamental trees that are prized for their graceful beauty. With their arching branches full of deeply fragrant flowers, they create a beautiful canopy of blooms that can be appreciated by gardeners and passersby alike. Despite their delicate appearance, they are surprisingly hardy and resilient trees, and when planted properly, they can live for decades.
But one of the questions that many gardeners have about these trees is how tall do double Weeping Cherry Trees get. The answer varies, depending on the cultivar, but the most common varieties reach maturity at heights of around 5 to 7 meters (or 16 to 23 feet). In rare cases, some exceptional specimens can reach up to 10 meters (or 33 feet).
To get the most from a double Weeping Cherry Tree, it’s important to create a safe and secure root system. This starts with proper soil preparation. The soil should be deep and well-draining, so that excess water and nutrients can enter and circulate freely around the tree’s roots. The soil should also be rich in organic matter like compost and mulch, to provide the tree with plenty of nutrients.
When planting a double Weeping Cherry Tree, the soil should be slightly acidic, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0, as this is the optimum range for most fruit trees, including Double Weeping Cherries. Pruning is also important, as this helps maintain the shape of the tree while encouraging more vigorous growth. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, and, in general, light pruning is all that is needed.
Fertilizing double Weeping Cherry Trees helps promote healthy growth, and there are both organic and chemical fertilizers available for use. Organic fertilizers are often specific to the type of tree, as different tree varieties have different nutritional needs. Chemical fertilizers, on the other hand, come in a variety of formulations and can be used for a wider range of plants.
Finally, it’s important to make sure the tree gets enough sunlight. Generally, double Weeping Cherry Trees need around six to eight hours of direct sunlight each day, and anywhere between six and eight hours of indirect sunlight. Too much sunlight can be just as damaging as too little, so it’s important to find a balance.
Pest Control
Pest control is also essential for Double Weeping Cherry Trees, as they are susceptible to a variety of pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and scale insects. These unwanted pests can cause damage to the leaves and fruit of the tree, and can even kill the tree if left unchecked. Insecticidal soaps can be used for light infestations, and certain organic sprays are also available for heavier infestations.
For more serious infestations, there are also systemic pesticides that can provide protection for an entire season. These systemic pesticides are taken in by the tree and then released throughout the branches and leaves, providing a sustained protection against pests. However, they should always be used with caution, as they can have unwanted side effects on beneficial insects, like bees and butterflies.
Finally, Double Weeping Cherry Trees should be monitored for signs of any diseases, such as brown rot, canker, and leaf spot. If a disease is present, it should be treated immediately to prevent further damage and spread.
Pruning
In addition to removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches from the tree, pruning can also be used to help maintain the shape of the tree. Pruning should be done in late winter or early spring, when the tree is still dormant. The branch tips should be cut back to one-third of the original size, and any damaged, diseased, or weak branches should be removed.
It’s important to remember that Double Weeping Cherry Trees have a pendulous growth habit, and pruning should be done in such a way as to preserve the natural arching shape of the branches. This can be done by removing the shoots that are growing above the arch of the branches, leaving the shoots below to continue curving down.
When pruning the Double Weeping Cherry Tree, it should also be thinned out to allow more light and air to reach the inner foliage. This should be done carefully, making sure not to remove too much at once, as this could cause damage or stress to the tree.
Watering
Watering is essential for Double Weeping Cherry Trees, as they need plenty of moisture to thrive. Ideally, the tree should be watered deeply once a week, or twice a week during particularly hot and dry periods. Generally, it’s best to water the tree in the morning, so the soil has enough time to dry out before nightfall. During periods of drought, it’s important to make sure the tree is getting enough water, as this can help prevent the leaves from browning or wilting.
If the tree is planted in a pot, it should be watered every few days, and any excess water should be drained away as soon as possible to prevent root rot. Watering a Double Weeping Cherry Tree can also be supplemented with a light mist of water, which can be helpful, particularly during hot and dry periods.
Soil Preparation
The soil that the Double Weeping Cherry Tree is planted in is also important, as this can affect the tree’s growth and health. Generally, the soil should be sandy and fertile, but it should also be well-draining. Clay or soggy soils can cause root rot, so if these conditions are present, it’s best to amend the soil or look for a better planting location.
A soil pH test will also provide valuable information about the soil, as it will indicate how acidic or alkaline the soil is. Weeping cherry trees are suitable for slightly acidic soils, with a pH between 6.5 and 7.0, so any pH outside of this range should be amended. Finally, plenty of organic matter like compost and mulch should be incorporated into the soil when planting to provide the tree with plenty of nutrients.
Fertilizing
Fertilizing a Double Weeping Cherry Tree helps promote healthy growth and can also help keep pests at bay. Generally, an organic fertilizer that is specifically designed for fruit trees should be used, as these products provide the right combination of nutrients for optimal health. Chemical fertilizers can also be used, but these should be used carefully, as they can be damaging to the tree if not used in the right doses.
In addition to a regular fertilizing schedule, it’s also important to install some form of nutrient-mulch such as compost. Compost will provide the tree with a steady supply of nutrients, but it also helps hold moisture in the soil and reduce weeds. Finally, a layer of mulch should be applied around the base of the tree to help maintain soil temperatures and keep the roots cool in summer.
