Growers of cherry blossom trees fulfill a centuries-old tradition. These pink and white beauties don’t just look good, but represent a special kind of peace in the garden. However, these trees are nearly impossible to find in nurseries and big box stores, so it can be difficult to take part in the culture surrounding them. If you want to experience the beauty of cherry blossom trees on your own property, you will have to grow them from seed. Growing a cherry blossom tree from seed is a lot of hard work, but with the right information and techniques, it can be a rewarding experience.
The first step for growing a cherry blossom tree from seed is to purchase the seeds. Your best bet is to buy seeds from a reputable source, such as a certified seed producer or a reputable online retailer. It is important to purchase high-quality seeds that have not been exposed to high temperatures, prolonged sunlight, or harsh chemicals. The seeds should be stored in a cool and dry place until you are ready to plant them.
Once you have the seeds, you will need to prepare the soil for planting. Cherry blossom trees do best in loose, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic pH level of 5.5 to 6.5. So, you will want to add organic matter such as compost or peat moss to help loosen the soil. You should also mix in some fertilizer to ensure that your tree to get the proper nutrients. Finally, you will want to dig a hole at least two feet deep, as the tree’s roots need space to spread out, and place the seed at the bottom of the hole.
From there, you will need to water the tree. The soil should be kept consistently moist, but not soggy. Watering can generally take place every other day, depending on the amount of rain during the season. You should also mulch around the tree to help conserve moisture and keep the soil temperature steady.
When it comes to pests, there are few that can bother cherry blossom trees. But it is still important to monitor the tree for signs of damage and to inspect for critters that may harm it. If you do notice any damage or pests, you can contact an expert for advice on how to remove them without harming your tree.
Finally, you will need to prune your tree. Pruning helps keep your tree healthy and prevents it from becoming unmanageable. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring as these are the ideal times to encourage growth. When pruning, you want to remove any dead or diseased branches as well as any branches that are growing too close together, as this can cause stress on the tree.
Fertilising and Mulching
Fertilising and mulching are important parts of caring for a cherry blossom tree from seed to maturity. Fertiliser should be added every six to eight weeks throughout the growing season. You can use a general fertilizer specifically formulated for ornamental tree varieties. Mulching should also be done on top of the soil around the base of the tree. Mulch not only helps to retain moisture in the soil, but it also helps fertiliser stay in the ground longer. You should aim to add a three-inch layer of organic material, such as wood chips or compost, in the early spring and then again every few weeks throughout the season.
Pruning
Pruning is an integral part of caring for a cherry blossom tree from seed. Pruning helps keep the tree healthy and structural integrity intact. It is best to prune cherry blossom trees in late winter or early spring, as this is the ideal time for encouraging growth. While pruning, be sure to remove any dead or diseased branches, as well as any branches that are intersecting. The goal of pruning is to encourage a strong, healthy tree structure.
Harvesting
Once your cherry blossom tree has matured, it’s time to harvest its flowers. Cherry blossom trees typically bloom in the early spring, so be sure to be prepared to enjoy your blooms as soon as they begin to appear. As you harvest the blooms, try not to pick the entire flower, as leaving some petals on the tree will ensure the best pollen production. Also, remember to deadhead already wilted flowers to ensure that the tree continues to produce more.
Caretaking Tips
When caring for a cherry blossom tree from seed, there are a few important tips to remember. First, make sure to water your tree regularly and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Second, maintain the pH levels of your soil by using organic material, such as compost or peat moss, and mixing in fertilizer during planting. Finally, be sure to prune your tree each year to encourage a strong, healthy structure.
