Prunus serrulata, Japanese Cherry Blossom, Sakura- Plant

Plant Description

Prunus serrulata, is primarily grown for its profuse and showy spring blossoms in early mid-spring. Depending on the cultivar the flowers may be of white to pink shade may be single, semi-double or double. Not all flowering cherry blossoms produces fruits. It is a small deciduous tree that can reach 15-25 ft.  Japenese cherry blossom trees are relatively short lived upto 15-20 years.

Sunlight

Cherry blossom trees prefer full sun to partial shade.

Soil

soil should be well drained, rich and fertile in organic matter.

Watering

• Poke your finger/plain small stick into the soil to check the moisture.
• Apply water preferably in the morning or evening time.
• Do not over water the plant.
• As a rule of thumb, water the plant thoroughly in the summer and reduce watering in winter and rainy season.

Application of fertilizer

• Before application of fertilizer loosen the topsoil without disturbing the roots of the plant so it can uptake the nutrients and moisture.
• During the main growing season feed the plant with organic fertilizer once a month.
• Apply water immediately after application of fertilizer.

Plant Protection

• Remove dead, infected or damaged plant parts and discard them away from the plants.
• For any insect attack or disease, you can use Neem oil, Eucalyptus oil or Citrus oil spray for primary treatment.

Don’ts

• Do not over water the plant especially when pot does not have drainage holes.
• Do not apply water on plant leaves.

Initial care for 1-2 weeks after receiving plant at your location.

• Check the moisture in the soil before watering it.
• Poke your finger into the soil, if dry then apply water.
• Keep the plant in indirect light.
• Do not repot immediately after receiving it.

Ornamental uses