How to Grow Flowering Cherry Trees

Overview

The show put on by the spring blooming of flowering cherry trees is nothing short of spectacular. This species of "prunus" has numerous varieties, such as Weeping cherry (Prunus subhirtella var. pendula), Okame cherry (Prunus mume), and the favored "Kwanzan" (Prunus serrulata), with its deep pink blossoms. All varieties of flowering cherry trees prefer full sun and most varieties are hardy in zones 5 to 9. They are tolerant of most soil types and can grow up to 40 feet.

Planting & Care

Step 1

Dig a hole to accommodate your new tree. It should be twice the size of the root ball, but not as deep. Loosen the soil along the sides of the hole to allow the roots room to roam.

Step 2

Place your tree in the hole, spreading the roots out. The top of the root ball should be level with the depth of the hole.

Step 3

Backfill with soil, adding a bit of water as you fill, to get rid of air pockets. Fill the soil up to the base of the trunk.

Step 4

Compact the soil around the base of the tree and water thoroughly.

Step 5

Add mulch around the base of the tree to a depth of 2 to 3 inches, but keep a few inches clear of the tree's trunk.