Tibetan Cherry 'Dorothy Clive' Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive'

Water

Tibetan Cherry, or Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive', requires moderate watering, with increased frequency during the growing season in spring and summer. It is important to water deeply and thoroughly, ensuring that the root zone is moistened. On average, provide about 1 to 2 gallons of water per week, adjusting based on rainfall and temperature conditions. In the hottest parts of the summer, water may be needed two to three times per week, while in cooler temperatures or periods of rain, reduce the frequency. Ensure that the soil is well-draining to prevent root rot, which can be caused by excessive water retention.

Light

Tibetan Cherry flourishes best in full sunlight having at least six hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily. An ideal spot for this tree would be one that offers plenty of sunshine throughout the day, without being overshadowed by larger structures or trees. The tree will tolerate some light shade, but too much shade can lead to fewer blossoms and poorer bark quality.

Temperature

Tibetan Cherry is reasonably cold-hardy and can tolerate temperatures as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit, but the ideal temperature range for optimal growth is between 50 and 75 degrees. It can also survive in areas with summer highs up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Planting in a location protected from harsh winter winds can help in colder zones.

Pruning

Tibetan Cherry should be pruned to maintain its structure and to remove any damaged or diseased branches. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before the start of the growing season. Pruning should be done sparingly, as the tree does not require heavy pruning and it should be aimed to enhance its natural shape. Remove any crossing branches or those that grow inward to improve air circulation.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Tibetan Cherry, Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive', thrives best in well-draining, fertile loam with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 6.5 to 7.5. For an optimal soil mix, blend loam-based compost like John Innes No. 3, peat-free compost, and sharp sand or fine grit to enhance drainage.

Repotting

The Tibetan Cherry, being a larger tree, is not typically repotted as it is usually planted directly into the ground. Young trees can be potted on to larger containers every few years until they reach a size suitable for permanent planting outdoors.

Humidity & Misting

The Tibetan Cherry or Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive' does well in typical outdoor humidity levels and does not require any specific humidity adjustments, being well-suited to temperate climates.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Not suitable for indoor growth; it's a large outdoor tree.

• Outdoor

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

• Hardiness zone

  6-9 USDA

Life cycle

Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive', commonly known as the Tibetan Cherry, begins its life as a seed, which once planted and given the right conditions, will germinate and develop into a seedling. As the seedling grows, it develops roots and shoots, which eventually form a small sapling; during this juvenile phase, the Tibetan Cherry's distinctive glossy, mahogany-brown bark starts to emerge. The sapling period transitions to maturity as the tree grows taller, develops a more defined trunk, and produces a fuller canopy of narrow, willow-like leaves. The mature Tibetan Cherry tree blooms in spring, producing small, inconspicuous white or light pink flowers followed by the formation of small, inedible fruits. The tree enters a period of full maturity and reproduction, where it continues to flower annually, contributing to pollination and seed dispersal for subsequent generations. This life cycle continues unless interrupted by external factors, with mature trees living for several decades.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring

• The Prunus serrula 'Dorothy Clive', commonly known as the Tibetan Cherry, is best propagated through grafting, which is the most popular method. The optimal time for grafting is late winter or early spring, just before the tree breaks dormancy. To graft the Tibetan Cherry, a scion, which is a young shoot with several buds, is taken from a healthy donor 'Dorothy Clive'. This scion is then joined to a compatible rootstock that has been prepared by making a diagonal cut. The cut surfaces are matched together and then bound tightly with grafting tape to ensure close contact and prevent the entry of disease. The graft union should be sealed with tree wound paint or grafting wax to promote healing and prevent drying out. Aftercare includes keeping the graft well-watered, sheltered from extreme weather, and monitoring for signs of successful union and growth.