Prunus 'First Lady' typically starts flowering in April.
cherry
Prunus 'First Lady'
Prunus 'First Lady' is a cherry tree variety known for its strong resistance toward insect damage. It blooms with many fragrant pink flowers in spring. It is a fast-growing tree and has an upright, pyramidal shape. Its glossy, dark green leaves are resistant to powdery mildew. Its fruit is large and bright red when ripe, with a sweet flavor. This cherry is self-fertile and a reliable producer. It can withstand temperatures down to -20°F when established, making it a great choice for cooler climates. Prunus 'First Lady' is a great choice for ornamental landscaping or home fruit production.
Cycle:
Perennial
Watering:
Average
Propagation:
Grafting Propagation,Budding,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Tissue Culture
Hardiness Zone:
6 - 8
Flowers:
Dark rose pink Flowers In Spring
Sun:
Full sun
Fruits:
red Fruits Ready In
Edible:
Yes
Leaf:
Yes
Leaf Color:
green
Growth Rate:
High
Maintenance:
Moderate
Salt Tolerant:
Yes
Care Level:
Medium
watering
Cherry (Prunus 'First Lady') should be watered evenly and deeply once a week, providing around 2 inches of water each time. This will help ensure the roots have access to water and that the soil remains moist and saturated. During times of high temperatures and periods of drought, watering may need to be increased to prevent the plant from becoming stressed. Always check the soil around the plant before watering, as heavy clay soil tends to hold moisture for longer than sandy or loam soil. If the soil feels moist, then you can wait until the following week to water the plant.
sunlight
Cherry (Prunus 'First Lady') is a hardy plant species that requires plenty of sunlight to thrive. It should be grown in an area that receives at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. That means that, ideally, the plant should receive full sun in the morning until early afternoon. Afternoon sun is important too, but the intensity of the sunlight should be lessened during that time to prevent burning and wilting of the leaves. To ensure that the cherry plant gets enough sun each day, it is best to place it in an area with southern or southwestern exposure.
pruning
When it comes to pruning your Prunus 'First Lady' Cherry Tree, the best time of year to prune is in early to late Spring, while the tree is still in its dormant period. Pruning in late winter or early spring can also be beneficial. Generally speaking, it is best to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged wood first. You should also prune out any suckers that grow from the rootstock, and remove any shoots that are growing in an irregular direction or are crossing or rubbing against 1 another. Inspect the tree for branches that can be thinned out in order to reduce the overall number of branches and improve the flow of air and light through the canopy. Make sure to not prune too far back as this can weaken the tree and open it up to disease. Prune back small side-shoots to the base of the main branch (about a quarter of an inch) for a better-shaped tree. All cuts should be made just outside of a bud or joint. The overall amount of pruning can vary but should generally be around 10-15% of the overall canopy.
Season
Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering
Harvest Fruit
plum The best time to start harvesting the fruits from Prunus 'First Lady' is usually in July or August.
Hardiness Map
FAQ
Is it possible to grow cherry plants in containers or pots?
Yes, it is possible to grow cherry plants in containers or pots. Cherry trees can grow quite large, so it is best to choose a tree that stays small, such as a dwarf or semi-dwarf variety. Make sure the pot is large enough to accommodate the root system, and use a premium potting soil with good drainage for the best results. Water the cherry tree regularly and repot it every year or two if necessary. Additionally, cherry trees need plenty of sunlight, so placing the pot in a sunny spot is ideal.
Are there any self-pollinating cherry plant varieties?
Yes, there are several self-pollinating cherry plant varieties available, including the Northstar, Balaton, Hedelfingen, and Centennial varieties. These varieties require no cross pollination from other varieties or trees to produce fruit, as the tree itself can self-pollinate. These varieties have a high resistance to fungal disease and they generally bear fruit within three years of planting. They are suitable for a variety of landscaping and orcharding projects and can be a great addition to any garden.
Should cherry plants be pruned during the dormant season?
Yes, cherry plants should be pruned during the dormant season. Pruning during the dormant season helps promote healthy growth and flowering as it removes any unhealthy or dead branches, and encourages new growth for the upcoming season. Additionally, pruning in the dormant season will help the cherry plant to direct nutrient flow to the areas that need it most, such as the new and healthy branches. Pruning when the plant is not actively growing also makes it easier to envision and direct the desired shape of the cherry plant and keep it healthy.
Do cherry plants prefer acidic or alkaline soil?
Cherry plants typically prefer a soil that is slightly acidic, with a pH range of 6.0-7.2. This type of soil allows cherry plants to absorb essential nutrients and encourages better drainage and aeration than soil with a higher pH level. Additionally, using an organic compost or manure can help ensure that the soil is acidic enough, as well as providing added nutrition and support for the cherry plants.
Should I cover young cherry trees during harsh winters?
Covering your young cherry trees during harsh winter months is a good idea. Doing so can help to protect them from extreme cold temperatures and icy winds. A lightweight cover such as burlap or plastic can be used to cover the tree, while taking care to ensure there is adequate airflow and that the tree is not too tightly wrapped. Additionally, a cover can be used to protect the tree from snow accumulation and harsh winds, both of which can cause significant damage to a delicate young tree. This extra layer of protection can help to ensure your young cherry tree survives harsh winter months so it can be enjoyed for years to come.
Is it possible to grow cherry trees from seeds?
Yes, it is possible to grow cherry trees from seeds. It is important to note, however, that most cherry trees grown from seeds will not be exactly the same variety as the parent tree, so take care if you are attempting to propagate a particular type. Planting cherry seeds is best done outdoors in early spring, as they require cold stratification in order to germinate. The seeds should be placed in slightly moist soil and exposed to full sun. If you live in a warmer climate, you may need to provide winter protection for your young trees, and regular pruning and shaping will help ensure that your cherry tree is healthy and productive.
Should I use mulch around cherry plants?
Yes, mulch is a great option to use around cherry plants. It helps to insulate the soil and retain soil moisture, reducing the need for frequent watering. It also keeps the roots of the cherry plants cool and reduces weed growth, while adding organic matter to the soil over time. When applying mulch, be careful to keep it away from direct contact with the stems and trunk of the cherry plants in order to avoid any potential damage.
Are cherry plants easy to propagate?
Cherry plants can be easily propagated from stem cuttings as well as from seed. Place a fresh cutting of the cherry tree’s stem in moist soil and cover with a plastic bag to maintain humidity while the cutting roots. Make sure to remove the bag after roots appear, and keep the soil moist. When growing from seeds, sow the fresh cherry seeds in the spring in an area that receives full to partial sun. The cherry plant will be more successful if planted outdoors rather than indoors. If cared for properly, cherry plants can be propagated with relative ease.
