Growing and Caring for Weeping Cherry Trees

Jennifer Bové

Fri, March 29, 2024 at 2:16 AM UTC

16 min read

How do you grow weeping cherry blossoms? <p>Photo by Cz Jen via Pexels</p> — How do you grow weeping cherry blossoms?
Photo by Cz Jen via Pexels

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Among the world's many ornamental trees, few species capture the essence of beauty and grace quite like the weeping cherry tree. With its cascading branches adorned with delicate blossoms, the weeping cherry brings elegance to gardens and landscapes around the world.

Let's explore the basics of growing a weeping cherry tree from start to finish. Whether you're a gardening novice or a seasoned landscape architect looking to add a touch of charm to your outdoor space, cultivating a weeping cherry tree is a rewarding and achievable endeavor. So, grab your gardening gloves, and let's get started!

5 Varieties of Weeping Cherry

Weeping cherry trees are known for their graceful, cascading branches that create a stunning display of flowers in spring. There are several varieties of weeping cherry trees, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are five popular varieties:

1. Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula' (Higan Cherry)

This is one of the most common and popular varieties of weeping cherry trees.
It typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 feet with a spread of 15 to 25 feet.
It produces pale pink to white blossoms in early spring before the leaves emerge.
The branches have a weeping habit, creating a graceful, umbrella-like appearance.

2. Prunus 'Snow Fountains'

'Snow Fountains' is a smaller variety of weeping cherry tree, reaching heights of around 8 to 15 feet with a spread of 6 to 12 feet.
It has a cascading growth habit, with branches that arch downward, resembling a fountain of white blossoms.
The flowers are white and appear in abundance in early spring.
'Snow Fountains' is well-suited for smaller gardens or as a focal point in landscapes.

3. Prunus 'Snofozam' (Weeping Extraordinaire Cherry)

This variety is known for its vigorous growth and large, weeping habit.
It can reach heights of 15 to 25 feet with a spread of 15 to 20 feet.
The branches droop dramatically, creating a striking silhouette.
'Weeping Extraordinaire' produces pink flowers in spring, adding a burst of color to the landscape.

4. Prunus 'Pink Snow Showers'

As the name suggests, 'Pink Snow Showers' features cascades of pink blossoms in spring.
It typically grows to heights of 12 to 15 feet with a spread of 10 to 12 feet.
The weeping branches create a romantic, picturesque effect, especially when in full bloom.
This variety is prized for its ornamental value and is often used as a focal point in gardens.

5. Prunus 'Cheals Weeping'

'Cheals Weeping' is a smaller weeping cherry variety, reaching heights of 8 to 10 feet with a spread of 6 to 8 feet.
It has a compact, umbrella-shaped canopy with cascading branches.
The flowers are light pink and appear in profusion in early spring.
This variety is ideal for smaller gardens or as a specimen tree in a landscape.

Is There a Dwarf Weeping Cherry Tree?

Yes! A dwarf weeping cherry tree is a smaller cultivar of the weeping cherry (Prunus subhirtella) species, known for its elegant, cascading branches and abundant spring blossoms. Unlike standard-sized weeping cherry trees, which can reach heights of 15 to 25 feet or more, dwarf varieties typically grow to a more compact size, making them suitable for smaller gardens, patios, or even container cultivation.

Dwarf weeping cherry trees exhibit the same graceful weeping habit as their larger counterparts but on a smaller scale. They feature arching branches that cascade downward, creating a picturesque effect, particularly when adorned with clusters of pink or white blossoms in spring. Some popular cultivars of dwarf weeping cherry trees include 'Snow Fountains,' 'Pink Snow Showers,' and 'Cheals Weeping.'

These compact trees are prized for their ornamental value and are often used as focal points in landscapes, accent plants in gardens, or even as bonsai specimens. Their smaller size makes them easier to maintain and suitable for a wider range of planting locations, including small yards, urban gardens, or even large containers on patios or balconies.

How big does a weeping cherry get? <p>Photo by Hi de waku, CC BY-SA 2&period;1, via Wikimedia Commons</p> — How big does a weeping cherry get?
Photo by Hi de waku, CC BY-SA 2.1, via Wikimedia Commons

Care

Caring for weeping cherry trees includes proper watering, fertilization, pruning, and protection from pests and diseases.

Watering

Watering is crucial, especially during the tree's establishment phase. Newly planted weeping cherry trees require regular watering to help them develop a strong root system. Once established, they still need consistent moisture, particularly during periods of drought or hot weather. Deep watering, allowing the soil to soak thoroughly, is preferable to frequent shallow watering. Mulching around the base of the tree helps retain soil moisture and suppresses weeds.

Can you overwater a weeping cherry tree?

Yes, you can overwater a weeping cherry tree. While adequate watering is essential for the health and vigor of the tree, excessive moisture in the soil can lead to various problems, including root rot and fungal diseases.

Overwatering can occur when the soil remains consistently soggy or waterlogged for extended periods. This can happen if the tree is watered too frequently or if the soil does not drain properly. In poorly draining soils, water may accumulate around the roots, depriving them of oxygen and causing them to suffocate and decay.

Signs of overwatering in a weeping cherry tree may include:

Wilting leaves, despite the soil being moist.
Yellowing or browning of foliage, particularly at the tips or edges.
Stunted growth or lack of new growth.
Foul odor emanating from the soil, indicating root rot.
Presence of fungal diseases such as powdery mildew or root rot.

To prevent overwatering issues, allow the top few inches of soil to dry out between waterings, and ensure that the soil has good drainage to prevent water from pooling around the roots. Additionally, avoid watering the tree excessively during rainy periods or in soils that retain moisture for prolonged periods.

Fertilization

Fertilization is another essential aspect of weeping cherry tree care. Applying a balanced fertilizer formulated for flowering trees in early spring can promote healthy growth and abundant flowering. It's important not to over-fertilize, as excessive nutrients can lead to lush foliage at the expense of flowers.

Pruning

Pruning a weeping cherry tree will help create a graceful and elegant growth profile and prevent a shrubby appearance. Both proper timing and attention to certain techniques will make all the difference in the growth and attractiveness of your tree.

Timing

Prune weeping cherry trees during the dormant season, ideally in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Avoid pruning during the growing season, as it can disrupt flowering and leave the tree vulnerable to disease and pests.

Techniques

Start by removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, cutting them back to healthy tissue.
Thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy.
Focus on maintaining the tree's characteristic weeping form by selectively pruning branches that detract from its shape or symmetry.
Use sharp, clean pruning tools to make smooth cuts, avoiding tearing or splintering of the bark.
Step back periodically to assess the tree's overall appearance and make adjustments as needed to achieve the desired aesthetic effect.
Avoid over-pruning, as excessive removal of branches can weaken the tree and diminish its ability to produce flowers.

Propagating Weeping Cherry Trees

Propagating weeping cherry trees can be done through various methods such as grafting, cutting, or layering. Each method has its own advantages and challenges, but with proper care and attention, it's possible to successfully propagate these beautiful trees.

Grafting

One common method of propagating weeping cherry trees is through grafting. This involves attaching a cutting or scion from a desired weeping cherry cultivar onto a rootstock of a compatible cherry tree. Grafting allows for the replication of specific traits of the parent tree, such as flower color and weeping habit. It's typically done in late winter or early spring when the trees are dormant.

The success of grafting depends on proper technique, ensuring a snug union between the scion and rootstock, and providing optimal growing conditions for the newly grafted tree.

Cuttings

Another method of propagation is through softwood or hardwood cuttings. Softwood cuttings are taken from the current season's growth in late spring or early summer, while hardwood cuttings are taken during the dormant season in late winter.

Cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches long and taken from healthy, disease-free branches. They are then treated with rooting hormone and planted in a well-draining rooting medium. With adequate moisture and warmth, the cuttings will develop roots over time and can be transplanted into larger containers or the ground once established.

Layering

Layering is another propagation technique that can be used for weeping cherry trees. This method involves encouraging a branch to produce roots while still attached to the parent tree. To do this, a low-growing branch is selected and partially buried in the soil, leaving a portion of the branch exposed above ground. The buried portion is wounded or treated with rooting hormone to stimulate root growth.

Over time, roots will form at the buried section of the branch, and once well-established, the new tree can be separated from the parent and transplanted to its desired location.

Where should I plant a weeping cherry tree? <p>Photo by Tim Evanson, CC BY-SA 2&period;0, via Wikimedia Commons</p> — Where should I plant a weeping cherry tree?
Photo by Tim Evanson, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Growing From Seeds

Here's a step-by-step description of how to grow a weeping cherry tree from seeds:

Seed Collection: Begin by collecting seeds from ripe weeping cherry fruits. These fruits typically mature in late summer or early fall. Remove the seeds from the fruit pulp and clean them thoroughly to remove any remaining flesh or debris.
Stratification: Weeping cherry seeds require a period of cold stratification to break their dormancy and prepare them for germination. Place the cleaned seeds in a plastic bag filled with slightly moistened peat moss, vermiculite, or sand. Seal the bag and store it in the refrigerator for about 90 to 120 days. This cold treatment simulates winter conditions and encourages uniform germination.
Preparation of Growing Medium: While the seeds are undergoing stratification, prepare your growing medium. Use a well-draining potting mix or a combination of peat moss and perlite. Fill small pots or seed trays with the growing medium, leaving some space at the top for planting the seeds.
Planting Seeds: Once the stratification period is complete, remove the seeds from the refrigerator and sow them in the prepared pots or trays. Plant the seeds at a depth of about 1 inch in the growing medium, spacing them evenly apart. Gently press the soil to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
Watering: Water the planted seeds thoroughly, ensuring that the soil is evenly moist but not waterlogged. Use a gentle spray or mist to avoid disturbing the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist throughout the germination process.
Germination: Place the pots or trays in a warm, brightly lit area, such as a sunny windowsill or greenhouse. Weeping cherry seeds typically germinate within a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on factors such as temperature and seed viability. Keep an eye on the pots and water as needed to maintain soil moisture.
Transplanting Seedlings: Once the seedlings have emerged and developed several sets of true leaves, they can be transplanted into larger containers or individual pots. Use a similar well-draining potting mix and provide adequate spacing between seedlings to allow for root development.
Outdoor Planting: After the last frost date in your area, the young weeping cherry trees can be planted outdoors in a suitable location. Choose a spot with full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Dig a hole slightly larger than the root ball of the seedling and gently plant it at the same depth as it was in the container. Backfill the hole with soil, water thoroughly, and apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Growing a weeping cherry tree from seeds requires patience and dedication, but the rewards are well worth the effort. Enjoy watching your young trees grow and flourish, knowing that you played a part in nurturing their beauty for years to come.

Common Problems

Weeping cherry trees, like any other plant, can encounter various problems that affect their health and appearance. Here are some common issues faced by weeping cherry trees:

Pests

Weeping cherry trees are susceptible to pests such as:

Aphids
Scale insects
Caterpillars
Spider mites

These pests can feed on the foliage, causing damage and potentially weakening the tree. Regular inspections and appropriate pest control measures, such as insecticidal soaps or horticultural oils, can help manage pest infestations.

Diseases

Weeping cherry trees can be prone to several diseases, including powdery mildew, leaf spot, cherry blossom blight, and canker diseases. These diseases can affect the leaves, flowers, and branches, leading to discoloration, wilting, and dieback. Proper sanitation, adequate airflow, and fungicidal treatments can help prevent and manage disease problems.

Root Rot

Overwatering or poorly draining soil can lead to root rot, a fungal disease that affects the tree's root system. Symptoms include yellowing or wilting foliage, stunted growth, and root decay. Improving soil drainage, avoiding overwatering, and planting in well-draining soil can help prevent root rot.

Environmental Stress

Weeping cherry trees may experience stress from environmental factors such as drought, extreme temperatures, and poor soil conditions. Stress can weaken the tree's immune system, making it more susceptible to pests and diseases. Providing adequate water, mulching, and proper soil preparation can help mitigate environmental stress.

Winter Damage

Harsh winter weather, including freezing temperatures, ice, and snow, can damage weeping cherry trees, particularly young or newly planted specimens. Winter damage may include broken branches, bark splitting, and dieback. Protecting trees with burlap wraps, avoiding late-season fertilization, and selecting cold-hardy cultivars can help minimize winter damage.

Improper Pruning

Incorrect pruning practices, such as heavy pruning or pruning at the wrong time of year, can stress weeping cherry trees and affect their growth and flowering. Improper pruning can also disrupt the tree's natural form and lead to unbalanced or unsightly growth. Following proper pruning guidelines and techniques, such as pruning during the dormant season and avoiding excessive removal of branches, can help maintain the tree's health and appearance.

Fruit Messes

Some weeping cherry varieties produce small, inedible fruits that can create a mess when they drop to the ground. While the fruits are not harmful, they may be unsightly and require regular cleanup to maintain the tidiness of the landscape.

What Is Overwintering?

Overwintering refers to the process of protecting plants, particularly tender or susceptible ones, from the harsh conditions of winter.

Overwintering

Proper overwintering practices are very important for weeping cherry trees, especially for young or newly planted specimens, to ensure their survival and health through the cold months. Here are some key considerations for overwintering weeping cherry trees:

Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the tree before the onset of winter. Mulch helps insulate the soil, regulate temperature fluctuations, and retain moisture, which is beneficial for the tree's root system during winter dormancy.
Wrapping: Wrapping the trunk of young weeping cherry trees with burlap or tree wrap can protect against sunscald and frost cracks, which can occur due to rapid temperature changes during winter. Wrapping the trunk from the ground up to the lowest branches provides an additional layer of insulation and prevents bark damage.
Watering: Adequate watering before the ground freezes is crucial for ensuring the tree has sufficient moisture to sustain it through the winter months. Deep watering helps hydrate the roots and prevents dehydration during periods of dry winter weather. However, avoid overwatering, as waterlogged soil can lead to root rot.
Wind Protection: Weeping cherry trees, with their delicate branches, may be vulnerable to damage from strong winter winds, which can cause breakage or bending. Erecting windbreaks or installing temporary barriers can help shield the tree from excessive wind exposure and reduce the risk of damage.
Pruning: Avoid heavy pruning of weeping cherry trees in late fall or winter, as this can stimulate new growth that may be susceptible to frost damage. Instead, wait until late winter or early spring, when the tree is dormant, to prune. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, as well as any crossing or rubbing branches that may lead to issues.
Protecting Containers: If you're growing a weeping cherry tree in a container, consider moving it to a sheltered location, such as an unheated garage or shed, to protect it from freezing temperatures and harsh winds. Alternatively, insulate the container with bubble wrap or other insulating materials to help maintain stable temperatures.
Monitoring: Throughout the winter months, periodically check on your weeping cherry tree to ensure it's not experiencing any issues such as frost damage, pest infestations, or excessive moisture around the roots. Promptly address any problems that arise to prevent further damage to the tree.

By taking these steps to overwinter your weeping cherry tree, you can help protect it from the rigors of winter and ensure its health and vitality for the coming growing season.

Frequently Asked Questions

How big do weeping cherry trees get?

The size of a weeping cherry tree can vary depending on the specific cultivar and growing conditions. Generally, weeping cherry trees can reach heights of 15 to 25 feet and have a spread of 15 to 25 feet.

However, there are smaller cultivars available that may only reach heights of 8 to 15 feet with a spread of 6 to 12 feet. It's essential to consider the mature size of the tree when selecting a planting location to ensure it has adequate space to grow and develop its weeping form.

What are the disadvantages of a weeping cherry tree?

While weeping cherry trees are prized for their stunning beauty and graceful form, there are some potential disadvantages to consider:

Susceptibility to pests and diseases: Weeping cherry trees may be susceptible to common pests such as aphids, scale insects, caterpillars and diseases such as powdery mildew and cherry blossom blight. Regular monitoring and proper care are essential to prevent and manage these issues.
Limited lifespan of flowers: The beautiful blossoms of weeping cherry trees are relatively short-lived, typically lasting only a week or two in spring. While the display is breathtaking, it is relatively brief compared to other flowering trees.
Messy fruit production: Some weeping cherry trees produce small, inedible fruit that can create a mess when they drop to the ground. This may require regular cleanup to maintain the tidiness of the landscape.
Pruning maintenance: Maintaining the weeping form of the tree requires regular pruning to remove crossing or rubbing branches and promote its graceful appearance. This ongoing maintenance may be considered a disadvantage for some gardeners who prefer low-maintenance landscapes.

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