Choose a Good Location
Kwanzan cherry trees thrive in full sun and tolerate partial shade. Choose a spot in your yard that will provide the tree with the adequate amount of sunlight. A protected site away from harsh winds and extreme temperatures is ideal. The area should also have excellent drainage which can be improved with organic matter or utilizing a raised bed to provide adequate drainage and oxygen, as well as easier access for required care and maintenance.
Prepare Your Soil
To ensure your kwanzan cherry tree’s success, start by preparing your soil. After digging a hole, combine compost or well rotted manure with the native soil. This will ameliorate the soil in the vicinity of the house and should increase drainage and humidity—essential for the trees’ survival. Young saplings require ample water, so it’s best to choose a spot where the water supply is consistent and not overexposed to direct sunlight.
When to Plant
Kwanzan cherry trees usually have a particular time frame for being planted, usually in late autumn or early winter. It’s best to get your tree as soon you’ve got your soil ready for planting. To keep your tree in top condition, you must wait until the temperature drops to a comfortable level before planting. Choosing the right time to plant will ensure that the tree remains healthy and vigorous throughout its life.
Cultivating Young Trees
During its initial growth, the tree should be fertilized lightly and watered regularly. Pruning is a necessary step in maintaining the tree’s beauty and structure. Remove any dying or damaged branches and shape the tree as it grows. To eliminate competition between the newly growing branches, cut any lateral branching or remove any lateral buds as required. Furthermore, it’s important to remove any buds growing from the trunk of the tree.
Protect From Pests and Diseases
Kwanzan cherry trees are prone to several pests and diseases affecting the roots and leaves of the tree. To protect your tree from such infestations, use chemical insecticides and fungicides. Also, ensure that water around the base of the tree is not too wet by making sure that the soil is not compacted or overly moist.
Protect the Tree
Throughout the season, the growth of the tree should be closely monitored in order to identify any weak points caused by too much sun exposure or wind. Utilizing rust resistant irrigation is suggested for young kwanzan cherry trees in order to limit the amount of leaf scorching. Moreover, make sure that a proper depth of soil is maintained around the perimeter of the tree to prevent dry damage from strong winds.
Prepare for Winter
Well before winter hits, prepare your tree by making sure there is adequate air circulation between branches and leaves. Wipe off any excess moisture from the leaves and apply mulch around the tree for insulation and prevent any weed growth. To prevent damage from late spring frost, try adding small tents of cloth or plastic around the tree. This will prevent the tree from receiving any damage.
Fertilizing and Transitioning
Once the tree is established and its growth is stable, it’s time to start implementing fertilizer practices. For the first year, adding a low nitrogen fertilizer or slow-release granular fertilizer is recommended. After the tree has transitioned past its first year, you can then switch to a high nitrogen slow-release fertilizer or a light liquid fertilizer.
Controlling Soil Moisture
Kwanzan cherry trees need a moderate amount of moisture to remain healthy and vibrant. If a prolonged dry spell hits, it’s best to give the tree a deep watering in order to allow for ample soil absorption. To eliminate excess moisture in the soil and reduce non-beneficial bacteria and fungi, the soil should be slightly disturbed throughout the summer. The addition of organic matter to the soil can also increase moisture retention and help the tree become established faster after any damage suffered during the dry period.
Promoting Healthy Growth
Once the tree has established, it’s important to promote healthy growth with the help of adequate nutrition. Keep the tree free of any pests and diseases, and provide enough space between the leaves to reduce overcrowding. Pruning should be done carefully and with consideration for the branch structure, as well as to limit the potential for disease.
Supporting the Tree’s Foundation
Kwanzan cherry trees need a strong foundation, so it’s essential to plant them in soil with proper drainage and oxygen content. Adding organic matter such as composted leaves or mulch to the area surrounding the tree will improve the soil’s condition and provide it with adequate nutrients to grow. Regularly check the tree for any signs of stress or diseases that could damage the tree’s health.
Adding Manure and Organic Materials
To promote growth and health of your kwanzan cherry tree, adding manure or other organic materials to the soil is beneficial. Manure adds additional nitrogen and other trace elements necessary for the tree’s growth. Additionally, adding an inch or two of compost around the tree can also help aerate the soil and keep the tree properly watered.
Maintaining Adequate Water Supply
The amount of water supplied to your tree should be adjusted according to weather conditions. Ample water is particularly important during dry spells; if rainfall is not sufficient, it’s best to use a hose and water the tree manually. Additionally, make sure to inspect any irrigation lines for potential damages.
Harvesting the Tree’s Fruits
Once the tree has matured and its branches have begun to bear fruits, it’s time to harvest the fruits. Ideal picking time varies depending on the season, but generally it’s best to wait until the fruits are fully developed. To harvest the kwanzan cherries, they must be picked with their stem still intact. Fruits left on the tree past the optimal harvesting time can harden and lose their flavor and sweet aroma.
Wrap Up
Growing and caring for a kwanzan cherry tree can be very rewarding. It’s important to regularly monitor the condition of the tree and adjust the management practices in order to ensure adequate nutrition, water and sunlight. Proper pruning and fertilizing practices also help keep the tree healthy and ensure it produces quality fruits. All in all, kwanzan cherry trees have certainly earned their place in the list of ornamental and fruit trees.
