How to Grow a Weeping Cherry

Overview

The weeping cherry tree, also known as the weeping Higan cherry (Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula'), is a medium-sized deciduous tree. The branches of this Japanese native have fragrant pink blooms in spring and bright yellow-orange foliage in the fall. Growing 20 to 30 feet tall, with a nearly equal spread, the weeping Higan cherry grows quickly and is a popular landscape tree. Although it is hardy to USDA zone 5 and will tolerate many types of soil, care must be taken to prevent the tree from succumbing to pests or disease.

Step 1

Purchase a weeping cherry tree at a local nursery or garden center. Check the young tree for evidence of pests or disease; if you see signs of trouble, don't buy the tree.

Step 2

Dig a hole slightly deeper and twice as wide as the root ball. Weeping Higan cherry trees prefer full sun, well-drained soil and some protection from the wind.

Step 3

Place the young transplant in the hole. Cover the root ball with topsoil or a garden tree soil mix up to the original planting depth.

Step 4

Remove any turf grass from planting area, then water the tree thoroughly.

Step 5

Cover the planting area with a 2-inch layer of organic mulch. Leave a 2-inch gap between the trunk and the mulch. Organic mulch helps keep in moisture, leaving the young tree less susceptible to disease.

Step 6

Water and fertilize the weeping cherry tree regularly. Sprinkle an all-purpose fertilizer made for flowering fruit trees around the base of the tree.

Step 7

Frequently check the young cherry tree for signs of pests or disease. Infestations of aphids, spider mites and borers can be controlled with applications of insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

Step 8

Trim off any branches that show evidence of powdery mold, leaf spot or any other disease to keep them from spreading. Cut the branches at the base with tree loppers.