Cherry 'The Bride' Prunus 'The Bride'

Water

The ornamental cherry tree, commonly known as 'The Bride', should be watered deeply once every week during its first growing season to help establish a strong root system. Mature trees are more drought-tolerant and may require less frequent watering. Depending on weather conditions, watering may vary from once a week to every two weeks, with each session consisting of about 15 to 20 gallons of water to saturate the root zone thoroughly. During dry spells or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to prevent stress. Be cautious not to overwater as this can lead to root rot.

Light

The ornamental cherry tree requires full sun to thrive, meaning at least six hours of direct, unobstructed sunlight daily. It is best planted in a spot that is exposed to the morning sun and is protected from harsh afternoon heat if possible. This ensures the tree receives enough light for bloom and fruit production without risking heat stress during the warmest part of the day.

Temperature

Ornamental cherry trees prefer moderate temperatures and grow best when daytime temperatures range from 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They can tolerate winter cold down to about -20 degrees Fahrenheit and summer heat up to 85 degrees Fahrenheit, but extreme temperatures, either hot or cold, can be detrimental to the tree's health. Providing a location with some shelter from strong winds can also help to maintain appropriate temperature levels around the plant.

Pruning

Ornamental cherry trees should be pruned to maintain shape and remove any dead or diseased branches; this is best done in late winter or early spring before the sap starts to flow (bleed). Pruning every 2-3 years is typically sufficient for maintaining the desired structure and stimulating healthy growth. Selective pruning after flowering is also appropriate to enhance the tree's natural form and avoid removing too many flower buds for the next season.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cherry 'The Bride' prefers well-drained, fertile soil with a pH of 6.0 to 7.5. A mix of loam, peat, and sand in equal parts can aid drainage and fertility. Incorporate organic matter to enhance nutrient content.

Repotting

Cherry 'The Bride' does not often require repotting as it is typically grown as an ornamental outdoor tree. However, if grown in a container, it should be repotted every 2 to 3 years in the spring.

Humidity & Misting

Cherry 'The Bride' thrives best in moderate humidity levels. Although tolerant of a range of conditions, avoid extremely dry air which can lead to leaf problems.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Ensure bright light, cool temps, and moderate water.

• Outdoor

  Full sun, well-drained soil, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-8 USDA

Life cycle

Prunus 'The Bride', commonly known as Cherry 'The Bride', begins its life cycle with seed germination, which occurs in the spring after stratification, when the hard endocarp softens. Following germination, the seedling stage involves root establishment and sprouting of the first true leaves, entering a period of vigorous vegetative growth. As the plant matures, it develops a woody stem and branches, entering the juvenile phase, which can last several years before it achieves its full form and structure. The adult stage is marked by the plant's readiness to flower, typically coinciding with early spring, where Cherry 'The Bride' displays its hallmark white to pale-pink blossoms that attract pollinators. After pollination, the plant produces small fruit in the form of cherries that contain the seeds for the next generation, completing its reproductive cycle. In the following autumn and winter, the plant enters a dormancy period, shedding leaves and conserving resources to survive the cold and prepare for the cycle to begin anew in spring.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• Prunus 'The Bride', commonly known as flowering cherry, is most successfully propagated during its dormant period, which typically runs from late fall to early spring. The most popular method of propagation for this ornamental cherry tree is through softwood cuttings taken in late spring or early summer. Cut a 4-6 inch (10-15 centimeters) length of new growth that has a couple of sets of leaves, making sure to cut just below a node. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting, dip the cut end into rooting hormone powder to encourage root development, and then insert it into a pot filled with a mix of half perlite and half peat for good drainage and aeration. The cutting should be kept moist and placed in indirect light until roots have established, which can be checked by gently tugging on the cutting to feel for resistance. After rooting, which may take several weeks, the new plant can be gradually acclimated to outdoor conditions before planting in a permanent location.