Pruning Techniques for Decorative Cherry Trees, Recommended by Professionals
Ornamental cherry trees are a delightful addition to any garden, offering an explosion of showy flowers in early to mid-spring. To ensure these trees continue to thrive and bloom beautifully, pruning is essential. But when is the best time to prune these trees?
The ideal pruning season for ornamental cherry trees is **early to mid-summer**, specifically in June or July, shortly after their seasonal flowering period. Pruning during this time helps avoid removing flower buds, which form on old wood, and reduces the risk of diseases that can affect trees if pruned in winter. Pruning too late (August or September) risks cutting off flower buds for the next year and limits the tree’s energy to develop winter wood[2][5][1].
When pruning ornamental cherry trees after flowering, it's recommended to prune within two weeks after the flowers fade to minimize loss of next season’s buds[5]. Focus on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches to improve airflow and light penetration. Maintain an open structure by thinning crowded branches to reduce disease risk.
Avoid heavy winter pruning because cherry trees are susceptible to fungal diseases like silver leaf fungus if cuts are left open during damp conditions later in the year[1]. When pruning, always use sharp pruning shears for small branches, loppers for medium branches, and a saw for large branches.
It's also crucial to prune out any diseased branches by cutting them back to a healthy shoot, taking care not to leave a stub. A clean cut will heal much quicker than a messy one. Pruning a mature ornamental cherry tree also involves removing dead branches, broken branches, and any branches that are diseased.
Clean the cutting surface between cuts on potentially diseased branches to prevent the spread of disease. If you're pruning multiple trees, consider using a bleach and water mix to clean the cutting surfaces of pruning tools before use.
Flowering varieties of ornamental cherry trees offer a much longer and more spectacular bloom compared to fruiting varieties. They are less demanding than fruiting trees in terms of sun exposure and cultural care, making them an excellent choice for gardeners of all levels.
Remember, the natural shape of the tree should be followed during pruning to increase its beauty. For expert advice, consider seeking guidance from a master gardener like Teo Spengler, a docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden.
By following these guidelines, you'll ensure your ornamental cherry tree remains healthy, beautiful, and continues to provide a stunning display of flowers year after year. Happy gardening!
Maintaining a home-and-garden with an ornamental cherry tree requires regular gardening, particularly pruning. The best time to prune these trees is during early to mid-summer, specifically in June or July, after their blooming season to avoid removing flower buds and reducing the risk of diseases.
