How to Grow Weeping Cherry Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2024

Weeping cherry tree is a plant that need drained, moist soil and well-lit areas with full sun. It is a fast grower and can live up to 50 years with the proper care. The weeping cherry tree is popular for its ornamental value and fragrant flowers.

How to Grow Weeping Cherry Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Cherry Blossom Tree
  • weeping cherry
  • Yoshino Cherry
  • Taiwan Cherry
  • Sargent Cherry

Common Knowledge

  • Weeping cherry trees are a popular choice for ornamental landscaping due to their beautiful, drooping branches and pretty pink or white flowers.
  • These trees are native to East Asia and were introduced to Europe and North America in the 1800s.
  • Weeping cherry trees can grow to be quite large, reaching up to 30 feet in height and width.
  • These trees prefer to grow in full sun but can tolerate some light shade.
  • The roots of weeping cherry trees are shallow and spread out wide, making them vulnerable to strong winds.
  • Weeping cherry trees should be planted in well-drained soil.
  • These trees are generally low-maintenance, but their branches may need to be supported with guy wires or staking when they are young.
  • Weeping cherry trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including Japanese beetles, aphids, and black knot.
  • The flowers of weeping cherry trees only last for a few weeks in spring, but the trees are also prized for their autumn leaf color.
  • Weeping cherry trees can live for many decades and are a cherished part of many home landscapes.

Related plant:
Weeping Caragana

Planting Process

  1. For weeping cherry tree, first step is to find a suitable location. The weeping cherry tree prefers a sunny location with well-drained soil.
  2. Next, you need to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  3. After that, you need to remove the tree from its container and loosen the roots.
  4. Then, you need to place the tree in the hole and fill it with soil.
  5. Tamp the soil gently and water the tree thoroughly.
  6. Next, you need to stake the tree if it is tall.
  7. Finally, you need to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree.

Related plant:
Weeping Fig

Soil Requirement

About soil condition, the weeping cherry tree prefers well drained soil that is moist but not soggy. The tree is quite adaptable to different soil types, but it does not tolerate drought conditions well. If the soil is too dry, the tree's roots will not be able to take up enough moisture and the tree will suffer.

About light

Not too different with other types of fruit trees, weeping cherry trees need full sun in order to produce fruit. If the tree is not getting enough sun, the fruit will be smaller and the tree will produce less fruit.

The Temperature

The temperature condition is optimal for the weeping cherry tree. The tree grows best in full sun and in moist, well-drained soils. It is tolerant of a wide range of soil conditions, including clay, loam, and sand. The weeping cherry tree is also tolerant of drought and salt spray.

Humidity Level

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is between 40 to 50%. If the humidity level drops below 30%, the weeping cherry tree will start to experience potential health problems. Low humidity can cause the leaves to become dry and brittle, and may eventually lead to leaf drop. In extreme cases, the tree may even stop growing.

The Fertilizer

Discussing fertilizer, this family of plant need only a little to maintain healthy growth. This can be applied in early spring before the new leaves emerge. Be sure to use a low-nitrogen fertilizer, or you may end up with more foliage than fruit. Also, contrary to popular belief, weeping cherry trees do not need to be pruned. In fact, too much pruning can inhibit the growth of fruit.

Plant Pruning

Pruning is an important step in keeping your weeping cherry tree healthy and looking its best. While it is possible to do it yourself, it is highly recommended that you hire a professional to do the job for you. Not only do they have the experience and knowledge to know exactly how to prune your tree, but they also have the proper equipment to do so safely and effectively.

About Propagating

Propagation Weeping cherry trees can be propagated from cuttings taken from the tips of young branches. The cuttings should be 4-6 inches long and should be taken from branches that are at least one year old. Cuttings should be taken in late winter or early spring. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a pot filled with moistened perlite or sand. Keep the pot in a warm, bright location and water the cuttings regularly. The cuttings should root within 4-6 weeks.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is very rapid during the first 10 years. After that, the growth rate begins to slow down. However, with proper care, weeping cherry trees can continue to produce new growth for many years.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are canker, borers and leaf spot. Canker is a disease that invades trees through wounds in the bark. Borers are insects that tunnel under the bark and feed on the wood. Leaf spot is a fungal disease that attacks the leaves.

Tips on Growing

  • If you live in a cold climate, it's best to wait until spring to plant your weeping cherry tree.
  • Choose a location for your tree that gets full sun.
  • Weeping cherry trees need well-drained soil.
  • Add a layer of organic mulch around your tree to help retain moisture.
  • Water your tree regularly, especially during periods of drought.
  • Fertilize your weeping cherry tree every year with a balanced fertilizer.
  • Prune your tree regularly to maintain its shape.
  • Be sure to protect your tree from deer and other animals that might damage it.
  • Watch for signs of disease or pests, and take action immediately if you see any.
  • Enjoy the beauty of your weeping cherry tree for many years to come!

Alternative Plants

  • Weeping birch
  • Weeping fig
  • Weeping willow
  • Weeping spruce
  • Weeping elm
  • Weeping ash
  • Weeping beech
  • Weeping Hemlock
  • Weeping larch
  • Weeping cedar

Source:
Weeping Higan Cherry | Yale Nature Walk
WeepingCherry - Bellarmine University
Prunus x subhirtella 'Pendula' (Weeping Higan Cherry) | North …

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
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Trees Category