Weeping cherries are small, deciduous trees that are some of the most stunning sights in a garden. With their gracefully arching branches and weeping habit, they’re truly breathtaking in the spring when they’re in full bloom. But how can you keep them from getting too large?
The key to prevent a weeping cherry from getting too big is pruning. That means regularly removing the tallest and most vigorous branches to keep the tree within the desired size. According to horticulture expert Richard Hammerschmidt, “Removing these growths will ensure that the tree doesn’t outgrow its space and start causing damage or blocking views.”
Pruning should be done cautiously, acknowledging that there isn’t one set rule for pruning every tree. Different trees – like different people – have unique characteristics and require unique pruning strategies. “You want to prune a weeping cherry just enough to keep it small without disrupting the beautiful shape and flow of the branches,” explains Hammerschmidt.
When doing the pruning, it’s important to use sharp tools and make smooth cuts. Make sure to cut at an angle, rather than straight across. Hammerschmidt explains: “When pruning from an angle, you’re directing the growth of the new branches in the same direction as the existing ones, which helps the tree maintain its beautiful shape.”
You should also prune in the spring when the tree is in the peak of its blooming cycle. If you prune too late, you may be cutting away the flowering parts of the tree, shortening its beauty season. In addition, spring is the optimal time since the tree is in a growth stage and can quickly heal any wounds.
It’s also important to remember that pruning a weeping cherry isn’t just about size; it’s also about form. “For optimal health and beauty, you’ll want to make sure you’re pruning your weeping cherry to keep it in its desired form without cutting away too much of the branches,” Hammerschmidt advises.
With patience, the right tools, and a bit of know-how, you can maintain the size of your weeping cherries while still enjoying their beauty and grace in your garden.
Branch Selection
The first step in pruning a weeping cherry is selecting which branches need to be pruned. You should remove the tallest and most vigorous branches first, as these will be the most prone to outgrowing its space in the garden. In addition, avoid pruning the interior branches if possible, since these are the ones responsible for bearing flowers. If you want to keep your tree full, strong, and healthy, focus on thinning rather than cutting away the whole branch.
When selecting which branches to prune, Hammerschmidt recommends considering why you’re pruning. If it’s for aesthetics, then you’ll need to consider the whole shape of the tree when making your selection. However, if your goal is just to keep the weeping cherry small, then you can focus on removing the longest branches first.
Another important factor to consider is the time of year. According to Hammerschmidt, you should avoid pruning in the winter, since the tree is in a dormant state and may not have enough energy to heal its wounds properly. The ideal time for pruning is in the spring when new growth starts to appear.
Overall, when you’re deciding which branches to remove, use your best judgement. In Hammerschmidt’s words, “You know your tree best, and have the creative license to make it beautiful in whatever way you like.”
Pruning Tool Selection
When selecting pruning tools, choose ones that are sharp and sturdy. For small branches, you can use a pair of hand pruners. For larger branches, a pruning saw is a better choice. Consider getting a pair of long-handled pruners, as these allow you to make precise cuts from a safe distance.
It’s important to use the right tool for the job. Pruning saws can be used to make larger cuts, but they’re also more likely to cause tearing of the bark and can leave jagged edges. Therefore, it’s better to use a pair of hand pruners for smaller branches. When making the cuts, try to keep them smooth and angled. In general, the smoother the cut, the less damage there will be to the tree.
In addition, make sure to clean and sharpen your tools regularly. Dull tools can cause ragged edges, which can be damaging to the tree. “Sharp tools are a must, as they allow you to make precise and smooth cuts,” explains Hammerschmidt. “It also helps make the job easier, as you don’t have to worry about struggling to cut through the branch.”
Finally, it’s always a good idea to wear protective equipment when pruning. That includes gloves, a hat, and safety glasses. Pruning trees can be dangerous, and it’s important to take the necessary precautions to protect yourself.
Corrective Pruning
The goal of corrective pruning is to maintain the desired form of the tree. This is especially important for a weeping cherry, since its grace and beauty are so closely linked to its form. As Hammerschmidt explains, “You have to be really careful when you’re pruning a weeping cherry, as the wrong cut might disrupt its natural shape.”
The key to effective corrective pruning is understanding the structure of the tree. Before you start cutting, take a few moments to study the overall shape of the tree and look for branches that need to be removed. Focus on thinning rather than cutting away the whole branch, and make sure you’re not cutting away too much of the tree’s canopy.
In addition, keep an eye out for any debris that may be blocking the flow of sap. Sap blockages can cause the tree to weaken or stunt its growth. If this is the case, you’ll need to carefully remove the offending debris before you start pruning.
Finally, make sure that you’re not cutting away too much at once. When pruning a weeping cherry, it’s best to take it slow and make small, gradual cuts. This will help you achieve the desired shape without causing too much damage to the tree.
Other Maintenance Practices
In addition to pruning, there are other maintenance practices that you can do to keep your weeping cherry in top shape. One is watering. Weeping cherries need consistent watering to survive, and it’s best to do this in the early morning.
It’s also important to regularly fertilize your tree. Choose a fertilizer that is specifically designed for trees and follow the directions on the package. An organic fertilizer is a good option, as it’s less likely to burn. If you want to give your tree an extra boost of nutrition, you can mix in some compost or manure into the soil around the tree.
Finally, take the time to check your tree for pests or diseases. Weeping cherries can be susceptible to pests and diseases, so it’s important to inspect your tree every few weeks. If you notice any signs of damage, contact a tree care specialist who will be able to help you determine the best course of action.
Mulching
Mulching is an essential part of keeping a weeping cherry healthy and disease-free. A thick layer of mulch around the tree helps keep the soil moist, which is essential for healthy growth. It also helps suppress weeds, which can compete with the tree for moisture and nutrients.
When mulching a weeping cherry, use a mulch that is specifically designed for trees. Avoid using compost or manure, as these can be too acidic for the tree to thrive. In addition, make sure to leave a few inches of open soil around the base of the tree so that water and air can enter the root system.
Finally, check your mulch layer every few weeks and remove any weeds that are poking through. Weeds can quickly take over a garden if left unchecked, so it’s important to stay vigilant in your weed-pulling.
