How to Plant Okame Cherry Tree

Okame cherry tree is a beautiful ornamental tree that blooms with pink flowers in early spring. Planting this tree requires the right location and care. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to plant okame cherry tree.

Choose the Location

The first step to planting okame cherry tree is to choose the right location. The tree requires full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. It is best to plant in an area that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight and has good air circulation. The soil should be fertile and moist but not waterlogged.

Prepare the Soil

Before planting, prepare the soil by digging a hole twice the size of the root ball. Mix in organic matter such as peat moss, compost, or aged manure to amend the soil. This will improve soil quality and provide essential nutrients for the tree.

Plant the Tree

Once the soil is prepared, carefully remove the okame cherry tree from its container. If the tree is root-bound, gently loosen the roots with a garden fork. Place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with the ground surface. Water the tree thoroughly to settle the soil.

Mulch the Tree

After planting, mulch the base of the okame cherry tree with two to three inches of organic mulch such as bark chips, pine needles or straw. This will help retain moisture, suppress weed growth, and regulate soil temperature. Be careful not to cover the base of the trunk as this can lead to rot.

Water and Fertilize the Tree

Water the tree deeply and regularly, especially during the first year while it establishes. Okame cherry trees require one to two inches of water per week. Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer, following the package instructions carefully. Avoid fertilizing late in the season as this can promote late growth and make the tree vulnerable to winter damage.

Prune the Tree

Prune the okame cherry tree in late winter or early spring before it begins to bloom. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Thin out the interior branches to improve air circulation and sunlight penetration. Prune lightly and shape the tree to maintain its structure and shape.

Conclusion

Planting and caring for okame cherry tree is easy with the right location and care. Follow these steps, and in a few years, you will have a beautiful ornamental tree that will delight you with its pink blossoms every spring.