Cherry, Flowering, Kwanzan

Tree Care:

Planting:
- Choose a sunny, well-drained site.
- Plant in early spring or late fall, ensuring a hole twice the size of the root ball.
- Water thoroughly after planting.

Watering:
- Maintain consistent soil moisture during the growing season.
- Avoid overwatering and use a drip irrigation system or soaker hose directed at the base.
- Apply mulch to retain moisture.

Fertilizing:
- Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.
- Avoid excessive fertilization.

Pruning:
- Prune in late winter while dormant for shaping and removing dead or diseased branches.
- Deadhead spent flowers after blooming.

Mulching:
- Apply organic mulch around the base to conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and control weeds.
- Keep a mulch-free zone near the trunk.

Pest and Disease Control:
- Regularly inspect for pests and diseases.
- Use appropriate controls as needed.
- Maintain garden cleanliness to reduce potential sources of pests and diseases.

Winter Care:
- Protect the trunk from winter damage with burlap or tree wrap.
- Prune in late winter to remove winter-damaged branches.

Tree Description:

Size and Shape:
- Kwanzan Cherry trees reach heights of 15-25 feet with a wide-spreading, umbrella-shaped canopy.

Leaves:
- Green leaves, serrated along the edges, turn bronze or coppery in the fall.

Flowers:
- Spring brings double, deep pink to pinkish-red 2-inch blossoms, creating a vibrant display.

Fruit:
- Small dark red to black cherries are produced but are not typically grown for consumption.

Hardiness:
- Kwanzan Cherry trees thrive in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Cultural Care:
- Well-draining soil and full sun are preferred.
- Keep soil consistently moist, prune in late winter, and apply slow-release fertilizer in spring.
- Mulch helps with moisture retention and weed control.
- Monitor for pests and diseases.

Landscape Use:
- These trees are popular for their spring beauty and work well as focal points in gardens and along streets or pathways.