ornamental cherry tree

Watering a flowering cherry (Prunus 'Kanzan' (syn. P. 'Kwanzan')) should begin after it is planted to keep the soil moist. During the first growing season, the tree should be watered every 5 to 7 days to ensure it gets enough water. Water in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to prevent the leaves from burning. Apply the water at the base of the tree rather than on the leaves. After the first growing season, water the flowering cherry 2 to 3 times each week with a few gallons of water at a time. In times of extreme heat, this may need to be increased to 3 to 4 times a week. Make sure the ground is evenly moist, but not overly saturated.

Flowering cherry (Prunus 'Kanzan' (syn. P. 'Kwanzan')) needs full sunlight for at least 6 hours a day for optimum flowering performance. The best time to get the full sunlight is between 10am and 4pm each day, when the sun is at its strongest. If the flowering cherry is planted in an area with less sunlight, the flowering may be reduced or delayed. Additionally, the lack of sunlight may also cause the cherry tree to grow sparsely and the flowers to be smaller and less numerous than in full sun.

Flowering cherry (Prunus 'Kanzan' (syn. P. 'Kwanzan')) should be pruned in late winter when the tree is still dormant. This will help to minimize the risk of spreading diseases and encourage new growth in the spring. Prune away any dead, crossed, or rubbing branches, as well as any water sprouts or suckers. You should also selectively prune out some of the oldest branches to promote new growth and give the tree a pleasing shape. When pruning, be conservative and only prune the minimum amount needed.