Cherry - Okame (Flowering)

Directions for Planting and Care

Planting and caring for your Cherry - Okame (Flowering) tree is a simple process, allowing you to enjoy its vibrant blossoms and stunning spring display without hassle. Here’s how to ensure a healthy and thriving tree:

Planting

Select the Right Location: Choose a sunny spot in your garden, as the Okame Cherry tree thrives in full sun, which is essential for producing its vibrant flowers. Ensure that the location offers enough space for the tree to grow, as it reaches a mature height of about 20 feet.

Prepare the Soil: Okame Cherry trees prefer moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with organic material such as compost to improve drainage.

Dig a Proper Hole: Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the root ball and slightly deeper than the root system. This will allow the roots to establish themselves comfortably.

Plant the Tree: Gently remove the tree from its container and place it in the hole. Ensure the root system is level with the surrounding soil. Backfill with native soil and tamp it down gently to avoid air pockets.

Water Thoroughly: Once the tree is planted, water it thoroughly to help the soil settle around the roots and provide moisture for the new planting.

Care

Regular Watering: The Okame Cherry requires consistent moisture, especially during dry spells. However, avoid over-watering, as this can cause the roots to rot. A slow, deep watering is ideal for ensuring the tree gets the moisture it needs without becoming waterlogged.

Pruning: Prune the Okame Cherry tree in late fall or winter to encourage a strong structure and healthy growth. Remove any dead or damaged branches to keep the tree thriving and to help maintain its beautiful shape.

Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to give your tree a boost for the growing season. Be sure to use a fertilizer that promotes flowering and strong root development, but avoid excessive nitrogen, which may lead to more foliage than flowers.

The Okame Cherry tree is a perfect addition to your garden, offering an elegant spring display of fragrant rose-pink flowers. This compact and hardy tree is ideal for smaller yards, providing color and beauty year after year.