The Cherry Blossom Tree

Known as Sakura in Japan, the cherry clossom tree produces a cloud of pink and white flowers in the spring. The blossoms symbolize love and luck. It is the unofficial national flower of Japan. In 1912, Japan donated 3000 cherry blossom trees to the United States as a symbol of peace and friendship between the two countries. The National Cherry Blossom Festival is held in Washington DC every March through Mid April to celebrate the arrival of spring.



Growing these trees is fun and easy. They should be grown on a slope in a sheltered area, in case of early spring frost which can damage or kill the trees. The trees should be exposed to full sun light. Trees that are not exposed to adequate sun light will produce fewer cherries that are less sweet. Soil should be moist and drained well with a slightly acid PH. Trees should be grown about 18 feet apart. Cherry Blossom Trees are self pollinating, which means you will get much more fruit every year by planting more than one tree. Mulch with compost in the fall to shelter the roots from frost.

Cherry trees can be susceptible to various fungal diseases, so it is important to remain vigilant for any signs that your trees might be sick. Bacterial cankers are common and can cause the leaves to yellow and drop off prematurely, as well as causing the bark of the tree to ooze. Prune the tree with shears that are disinfected with alcohol to prevent spreading the bacteria to other parts of the tree. Spray trees with a copper fungicide in the summertime to prevent the spread of bacteria.

I hope this was informative. Good luck in your cherry tree endeavors!


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