Yoshino Flowering Cherry?
Question:I bought two of these trees really cheap since they appear to be in bad shape. Although the trunk appears to be strong and alive there are no leaves. What can I do to bring these trees back into good condition? Even if they die I won't be out of more than a few dollars. They're still in their plastic planters and in full sun. Should I add fertilizer or other products to help them grow and how often should I water them in this condition? Also if I can keep them alive how long will it take before I notice new plant growth? Thank you.
Answers:
Yoshino cherry trees like acidic, sandy, well-drained but regularly watered soil. Thats a pretty particular kind of soil, so check and see what their soil looks like - if its not sandy or is water-logged, they may need different dirt.
Basically, they like regular watering and full sun to part shade. I would also check to see if they are pot-bound. If the roots are crawling out of the bottom or if you can lift the tree out of the pot and see that the whole pot is filled with roots on the sides, then I would bet that the tree is unhappy because it needs more room. Also, pruning the tips of the branches can trigger a growth spurt, particularly at this time of year. Lastly, I would sniff the bottom of the pot and see if it smells rotten - cherry trees can suffer from root rot if they are in waterlooged soil, and that can make a tree look really bad. If thats the case, take the tree out, cut off the rotten black roots and add some better draining, sandier soil.
You will spend more money on time, chemicals and labor in trying to nurse the trees back into good health. Your best bet is to buy good looking Yoshino's from your local garden center or nursery and planting them in Full Sun/Particial Shade, your choice. These are beautiful Cherry trees and should be full of foliage and blooms at this time.
Did they get frosted recently? If so , just water & wait. If that's not why leaves aren't there, it's a lost cause . Take 'em back. CHEAP crap, is still "crap".
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