The weeping cherry tree is a majestic tree that has been a part of the landscape for centuries. It is a sight to behold, as the cascading branches create breathtaking shapes of beauty that endure for many years and is why more and more people are choosing to include it in their gardens.
The weeping cherry tree is a deciduous flowering tree, with most varieties yielding blossoms in either white or pink in spring. Unfortunately, these trees do have their issues and in this article, we discuss methods on how to keep the tree healthy so it can live for many years and provide the desired beauty.
The most important tip when trying to take care of a weeping cherry tree is to exercise patience. Even if you don’t think the tree is dying, give it some time – it may just be in a shock period and may eventually respond favorably to your care. Also, do not try to do too many things at once. Follow each step meticulously and be sure to check on the tree weekly.
Secondly, choose a suitable location to plant the weeping cherry tree. It needs full sun, so be sure to pick an appropriate sunny spot. It should also have plenty of space to grow, so ensure there is enough room for the tree to spread its branches and bloom. Finally, maintain the soil’s pH balance and keep it adequately moist, being mindful not to overwater it.
It is also important to pay attention to any signs of pests and insects. Weeping cherry trees are susceptible to several pests, including the scales of the cottony cushion, aphids, and spider mites. For diseases, they are prone to bacterial blight, crown galls, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. If these problems arise, be sure to take swift action, as they can cause quite serious damage. Fortunately, these pests and diseases can be treated with a variety of ways, such as applying fungicides, horticultural oils, or insecticides.
Lastly, be sure to prune the tree. Pruning is an essential part of maintaining the beauty of a tree. The best time to do this is when the tree is in the dormant period. This could mean any time from late autumn to early spring. Avoid pruning during the active growing time, as it can cause damage. Be sure to use sharp tools, such as shears, and make sure any cuts are clean.
Fertilizing the Weeping Cherry Tree
When taking care of a weeping cherry tree, it is important to fertilize it in order to maintain optimum health. Fertilizing is best done in late spring or early summer – make sure to use an organic fertilizer that is formulated for flowering trees. Additionally, use the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s guidelines and take into account the soil conditions. It is always better to err on the side of caution, as overwatering can be harmful or fatal to the tree.
When the tree is dormant, fertilizing it with a slow-release fertilizer is recommended. This helps in building up the soil’s health, which eventually aids the tree. Additionally, it is worth noting that hardwood mulch can also be beneficial for the tree, as it helps in maintaining soil conditions and in retaining moisture.
Protecting the Weeping Cherry Tree from Extreme Weather
Weeping cherry trees are very susceptible to extreme weather conditions. In the winter, snow and ice can damage branches and cause harm to the tree. To protect the tree from this, it is important to provide adequate irrigation during summer, as this will help the tree store enough energy to survive the winter. Additionally, wrap the trunk of the tree with burlap; this helps to protect it from the cold and frost and also conserves the soil moisture.
During the summer, direct sunlight can be very harmful for the weeping cherry tree. Thus, it should be planted in a shady area and be sure to water it generously. If the temperatures are too high, install a sprinkler system and have it run for a few hours a day to keep the tree cool and prevent it from drying out.
Disease Prevention
Since the weeping cherry tree is prone to various diseases, it is important to cultivate good disease prevention practices. Start by choosing healthy and certified plants and planting them in a location that suits their nutritional and environmental needs. When pruning the tree, no bristles should be left behind. Additionally, it is important to fertilize the soil, take a look at the tree frequently, and prune any dead, diseased, or damaged branches.
Also, prevent fungal diseases by regularly cleaning all nearby discarded plant debris and avoiding overhead irrigation. The leaves should remain dry and should be monitored for any signs of fungal growth. Additionally, if the tree is kept in a pot, empty it and let it dry for a few days before refilling it with fresh soil. This helps in getting rid of any possible disease present.
Propagation of the Weeping Cherry Tree
Propagating a weeping cherry tree can be achieved in a few different ways. Cane-cuttings are the most common way of propagating the tree. For this, take 5-6″ long cuttings from a healthy branch and place them in a pot with a sterile medium, such as half potting soil and half perlite. Place the cuttings in the medium and cover them with a plastic bag. Next, keep the pot in a cool location but not in direct sunlight and water very lightly.
Once the roots are developed, you can transfer the cuttings to a permanent pot; however, make sure that the new pot is no larger than 12″. Additionally, a weeping cherry tree can also be propagated by taking seedlings, which requires placing the seeds inside a damp paper towel and placing the towel inside a plastic bag for about 10-14 days. Germination usually occurs during this period and once the seeds germinate, you can transplant them in their own pots.
Pruning the Weeping Cherry Tree
Pruning is essential for a weeping cherry tree’s health and maintaining its cascading shape. Pruning should always be done when the tree is in its dormant period, which is usually between late autumn and early spring. Avoid pruning during the summer, as this can cause more harm than good. This is because the tree is actively growing during those months and any significant pruning can cause it to go into shock.
When pruning, certain guidelines should be followed – it is best to avoid pruning more than 30% of any part of the tree. Start by removing dead and damaged branches first and then look for areas where you can thin the tree. Finally, prune any branches that cross one another, as this can cause damage. For best results, use sharp tools, such as shears, and avoid leaving any jagged cuts.
Watering the Weeping Cherry Tree
Watering is essential for the weeping cherry tree, especially when the weather is dry. For best results, water the tree directly at its base. This helps in keeping the soil moist and avoids dampening the foliage. Additionally, it is best to water the soil around the tree rather than trying to water the entire tree, as this might not be very effective.
Ideally, the soil should remain slightly moist but not waterlogged. Establish a watering schedule and stick to it. If you are unsure as to how much water your weeping cherry tree needs, keep an eye on the leaves – if they start to droop, it is a sign that the tree is thirsty and needs to be watered. Also, ensure that the pot has adequate drainage.
