Japanese Flowering Cherry Tree

Prunus serrulata

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Quick Care Guide

Prune: Light shaping after blooming; remove dead or crossing branches
Sunlight: Full sun (6+ hours daily)
Water: Weekly during dry spells; prefers moist, well-drained soil
Fertilize: Early spring with balanced slow-release fertilizer
Leaves: Glossy green, turning vibrant shades of orange and red in fall
Flowers: Soft pink or white blossoms in early to mid-spring

Pruning

Japanese flowering cherry trees benefit from light pruning just after flowering. This helps maintain shape and encourages healthy growth. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and reduce the risk of disease. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can stress the tree and reduce the following year's blooms.

Watering

While established trees are somewhat drought-tolerant, regular watering during dry periods helps maintain health and bloom quality. Water deeply once a week, ensuring the soil is moist but not soggy. Young trees need more frequent watering until they are well established.

Leaves

The leaves are ovate with finely serrated edges, emerging bright green in spring and maturing to a rich, glossy green. In fall, they turn brilliant shades of red, orange, or bronze, adding seasonal interest.

Sunlight

These trees thrive in full sun, needing at least 6 hours of direct sunlight each day. A sunny location promotes stronger growth and more abundant blossoms. Partial shade is tolerated but may reduce flowering.

Fertilization

Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring as buds begin to form. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of blooms. Compost or organic mulch can also help retain moisture and enrich the soil.

Flowers

Japanese cherry trees are renowned for their delicate pink or white blossoms that appear in early to mid-spring. The flowers may be single or double, depending on the cultivar, and often appear before the leaves. The blooms are short-lived but spectacular, creating a stunning seasonal display symbolic of renewal and the fleeting nature of beauty.