Overview
Prune your cherry trees in the late fall or winter when they are dormant to ensure healthy regrowth in the spring. Pruning a flowering cherry tree can be a tricky feat; it should be done carefully to ensure the best results. However, with the right tools, know-how, and a few steps, you can successfully prune your cherry tree with ease. This article outlines the steps you need to take when pruning a flowering cherry tree, such as cleaning and sharpening your tools, and knowing when is the best time to prune. Tips from experts and insights from other gardeners are provided to empower you with knowledge when pruning.
Tools
Before beginning any gardening tasks, it is important to ensure you have the right tools at hand. Pruning shears or loppers are essential, as they provide the most precise cuts on the branches. Pruning saws should also be readily available. When you are selecting these tools, they should be well sharpened and clean, to ensure a successful pruning. It is also helpful to wear protective gear to shield your skin and eyes.
Step One – Prepare the Branch
Once your tools are in position, it is time to begin pruning your cherry tree. Start by selecting a branch that should be pruned. Carefully inspect the branch for its health and damage. If the branch is dead, cut it away from the tree, ensuring that the cut is made at the branch collar.
Step Two – Make the Cut
Cutting away branches can stimulate new growth; however, it is important to make the correct cut. It is best-practice to use the three-cut method to reduce strain on the tree. To begin, make a notch at the side of the branch collar (not the top) and make a shallow second cut just outside of the notch. Finally, the third cut can be made just above the branch collar to remove the branch.
Step Three – Inspect the Tree
Now is the time to really inspect your cherry tree. Take note of how the tree looks, noting whether there are dead or damaged branches, or if it shows signs of disease. If there is any suspicious activity, it is best to call a professional tree specialist as they can assess the tree with more expertise.
When to Prune
Pruning works best when the tree is dormant, ideally in late fall or winter. Pruning at this time of year stimulates good fruit production in the following summer. Pruning a flowering cherry tree is an essential task to carry out; it not only keeps the tree healthy and maintained but also encourages new growth for the coming years.
Sterilize Tools
Once pruning is complete, it is essential to clean and sterilize your tools correctly. Otherwise, you risk spreading bacteria and diseases from pruning one tree to another. Disinfect your tools in a solution of one part bleach and nine parts water. This is a simple step that can protect your future plants and prevent the spread of harmful bacteria or funguses.
Get Advice From Experts
As cherry trees are susceptible to damage and disease, it might be worth consulting with the experts. Research through gardening magazines, contact your local tree care services, or search for expert advice on gardening websites. Educate yourself on the proper pruning techniques and different trees varieties, to give your cherry tree the best start.
Cherry Tree Health
Once the pruning is finished, it is time to look into how healthy the tree is. Check for weak or dead branches, inspect whether the branches are crossing over each other, and check if the bark is splitting or peeling. You can also look out for any pests, such as aphids, which can cause harm to the tree, and if you see any, call a professional tree care service to remove them.
Watering and Feeding
When it comes to watering, it is recommended to water the tree deeply and regularly. Mulching the soil around the tree will help to keep the water locked in the soil. To give the tree the nutrients it needs, top-dress the soil with a slow-release fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied between April and June, to give the cherry tree the essential nutrients for the summer.
Pruning for Shape
Pruning for shape encourages your cherry tree to produce branches more casually, which can help to minimise the risk of breakage due to wind. When pruning for shape, always begin from the bottom and work your way up, removing the dead or damaged branches. To create a desired shape, prune the branches that are crossing over each other and aim for an oval to round shape.
Amend Soil
Cherry trees require well-drained soil as they are prone to root rot. To ensure your tree has the best soil, amend the soil around the tree with compost consisting of organic matter. This helps to give the soil more nutrient and can prevent the tree from becoming stressed.
Conclusion
Pruning a flowering cherry tree can be a daunting task; however, it is an essential process to keep your if healthy and vibrant. With the right tips and knowledge, pruning becomes a simple task. Not only is pruning essential for keeping the tree healthy, it helps to promote fruit growth and bursts of beautiful blooms.
