One of the most popular flowering trees in spring is the Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree. It is prized for its cascading branches and signature white blooms. Although planting a Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree is a relatively simple process, there are several steps one should follow to ensure the tree’s health and beauty in years to come.
Choosing the Right Tree
The first step in planting a Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree is to select the right tree for the location. Ensure to select a tree with a healthy root system, preferably from a tree nursery or supplier. Read the roots of the tree carefully to ascertain their health. Also, check the tree and its branches for signs of disease and pests.
The best time of the year to purchase and plant a Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree is in the early spring or late fall. This will ensure that the tree has a better chance of surviving the cold winter and will have enough time to become established in the new location before the hot summer months.
Preparing The Soil
Once the right tree is sourced, the next step is to prepare the soil for planting. There should be enough space for the root system to spread, ideally in a circle of five to seven feet in diameter.
The soil must be tested before the tree is planted. If the soil contains an abundance of clay, a layer of top soil can be added to the surrounding area. This will allow the roots to spread more easily and prevent water from pooling around the tree.
Fertilizing the soil with an organic compound before planting is recommended, especially for sandy or poor soils. Novice gardeners and experts alike should take care not to over-fertilize the soil or the tree could be harmed. Finally, check and prepare the hole before planting to avoid any potential roots issues.
Planting the Tree
The Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree must be planted in an upright position and as deep or slightly higher than the original hole. The hole should be filled in with the same soil that was removed, although it is advisable to mix it with a bit of organic compost to enrich the soil. Once planted, press the soil gently around the roots to ensure that they remain secure.
Once planted, water the tree thoroughly and lay a two-inch layer of organic mulch on top of the soil, around the circumference of the tree. This will keep the soil moist, aid in weed control, and slowly release nutrients into the soil.
Finally, a tree guard should also be installed to protect the tree from pests, disease, and deer. This will help ensure the health of the tree and prevent any damage to the trunk and roots.
Prune and Trim
Once the tree is planted and the guard is installed, it must be pruned and trimmed. Weeping cherry trees have a tendency to become overgrown, so pruning and trimming should be done regularly to maintain the shape of the tree and promote healthy growth.
When pruning, the main goal should be to encourage the growth of lateral branches that will eventually cascade downwards. This can be achieved by removing any old or dead branches, crossing branches, and branches with narrow crotch angles. Pruning should be done in the late winter, before the tree begins to bloom.
Fertilizing and Tending For The Tree
Much like any other tree, the Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree must be properly fertilized and tended to after planting. Fertilize with an organic fertilizer approximately four times a year in the spring and summer months. This will provide necessary nutrients to the tree, and will be especially beneficial for sandy and clay soils.
Water the tree frequently, especially during its first few years, to ensure that the roots remain healthy and the soil is moist. Make sure to never over-water, as this could harm the tree. Water with a sprinkler or a drip system every few days, especially during the summer months.
Protect From Pests and Disease
The Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree must also be protected from pests and disease. The most common pests and disease affecting the tree include aphids, borers, and leaf spot and mildew. Regularly inspect the tree for signs of pests and disease, and contact a tree expert for advice if any is found.
In addition to regular inspections, the tree must also be treated with pesticides and fungicides periodically. These treatments will kill off any existing pest or disease and prevent any future damage to the tree. However, it is important to use only pesticides and fungicides specifically designed for weeping cherry trees, as some may be too harsh and could harm the tree.
Provide Supplemental Care
Finally, the tree should be provided with supplemental care in the form of shelter and additional support. The area around the tree should be sheltered from strong winds, ideally with a fence or other form of windbreaker. This will prevent the branches from breaking or being damaged.
In addition, additional support should be provided for the branches, especially during the first few years, until they become strong enough to hold themselves up. This can be achieved by supporting the branches with stakes or a wooden frame. These will hold the branches up until they become strong enough to support themselves.
Maintaining the Tree
Though attractive, the Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree is a relatively high-maintenance tree. The tree must be cared for regularly and inspected for signs of disease and pests. Proper fertilizing, pruning, and supplemental care must be provided in order to ensure a healthy growth and an attractive appearance.
Moreover, the surrounding area must be kept clear of debris and leaves, as these can attract disease and pests. Additionally, the roots should be checked periodically to ensure that they remain healthy and sufficient water is being provided. With proper care and maintenance, the Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree should remain healthy and beautiful for many years.
Conclusion
In conclusion, planting a Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree is relatively simple, but its health and beauty depend on proper care and maintenance. The tree must be carefully chosen and the soil tested and prepared. It must also be properly planted, pruned, fertilized, and tended to. Furthermore, it must be protected from pests and disease and provided with supplemental care, such as more support and shelter from strong winds. With the proper care and maintenance, the Snow Fountain Weeping Cherry Tree will remain healthy and beautiful for many years.
