Double gean Prunus avium 'Plena' (d)

Water

The Double-Flowering Cherry Tree, commonly known as Prunus avium 'Plena', should be watered deeply and regularly during its first growing season to establish an extensive root system; aim for about 1-2 gallons of water per week, depending on the weather and soil moisture levels. Once established, they are moderately drought tolerant and natural rainfall will often suffice, but during prolonged dry spells, water the tree every two weeks with approximately 2 gallons. Avoid overwatering and ensure good drainage to prevent root rot.

Light

The Double-Flowering Cherry Tree thrives in a location with full sunlight, where it can receive at least six hours of direct sun daily. Plant it in a spot where it is not shaded by buildings or taller trees to ensure it gets the best light conditions needed for optimal flowering and fruit production.

Temperature

The ideal growing temperatures for the Double-Flowering Cherry Tree are between 60°F and 75°F. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8, meaning it can withstand winter lows down to -20°F and summer highs up to 90°F, but extreme temperatures beyond these ranges could potentially harm the tree.

Pruning

Prune the Double-Flowering Cherry Tree to remove any dead, damaged, or overcrowded branches, which promotes healthy growth and allows better air circulation. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before the tree breaks dormancy. Pruning should be done annually or every few years, depending on the tree's growth and appearance.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Double Flowering Cherry prefers well-draining soil with a layer of mulch to retain moisture. The best soil mix should include loamy or sandy components and organic matter such as compost to encourage healthy growth. The ideal soil pH for Double Flowering Cherry should be mildly acidic to neutral, around 6.5 to 7.5.

Repotting

Double Flowering Cherry trees, being large landscape plants, are not typically repotted. They should be planted in a permanent location where they won't need to be moved as they can reach considerable sizes.

Humidity & Misting

Double Flowering Cherry trees are adaptable to a wide range of outdoor humidity levels and don't have specific humidity requirements, as they are mostly grown outdoors.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Double Flowering Cherry cannot be grown indoors; it's a large outdoor tree.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-draining soil, full sun, protect from strong winds.

• Hardiness zone

  5-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Double-Flowered Cherry (Prunus avium 'Plena') begins as a seed, which after stratification (a period of cold to break dormancy) germinates in the spring. It progresses to a seedling stage, where it establishes roots and begins to sprout leaves. As a young tree, it undergoes vegetative growth, forming a woody structure and branches. Flower bud induction occurs next, usually requiring exposure to winter chill to stimulate spring flowering, featuring its notable double white blossoms. Following pollination, the tree produces small, non-edible cherry-like fruits that contain seeds, which if conditions allow, can disperse to grow new trees. The tree reaches maturity in several years, can live for decades, and goes through an annual cycle of flowering, fruiting, and dormancy.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The Prunus avium 'Plena', commonly known as the double-flowering cherry, is often propagated through grafting. This is a popular method because it maintains the true characteristics of the parent plant. Grafting is typically done in late winter or early spring before the buds begin to swell. A scion, which is a piece of a branch with buds, is taken from a healthy double-flowering cherry tree. It is then inserted into a cut made in the rootstock, which is generally from a seedling or a different variety of cherry that provides vigor and adaptability to soil conditions. The two pieces are tightly bound together with grafting tape and sealer to ensure a good union. After successful grafting and once growth is apparent, the tape can be removed, generally after a few weeks to a couple of months.