Cherry trees, known for their delicate spring blossoms, also offer a captivating display as autumn arrives. Their foliage transforms into a spectrum of warm colors, providing a unique visual appeal before the trees enter dormancy.
Autumnal Characteristics of Cherry Trees
As fall progresses, cherry trees undergo a remarkable transformation in their foliage. The vibrant green leaves of summer begin to shift, displaying an array of gold, bronze, orange, and red hues. Some varieties, like the Higan cherry (Prunus subhirtella ‘Autumnalis’), even produce a second, albeit more modest, flush of pale pink to white blossoms during this time.
Beyond the striking leaf colors, the tree’s structure becomes more pronounced as leaves drop. The bark, distinctive across different cherry species, often features horizontal lines (lenticels) or exhibits scaly, flaky, or shedding patterns. These variations become more noticeable, contributing to the tree’s aesthetic appeal throughout the colder months.
Preparing Cherry Trees for Winter
Preparing cherry trees for winter involves several steps to help them withstand cold temperatures and emerge healthy in spring. Adequate watering is important, especially for younger trees or during dry autumn periods, as it helps insulate the roots and ensures sufficient moisture before the ground freezes. Continue deep watering until a few weeks before the first hard freeze, allowing the tree to store nutrients in its roots.
Applying a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree is beneficial for insulation and moisture retention. Materials such as wood chips, shredded leaves, or straw, spread 2 to 6 inches deep, help protect feeder roots from freezing temperatures. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture accumulation that can lead to rot or attract pests. The ideal time for this application is in late fall, after several frosts have occurred.
Regular inspection for pests and diseases before winter dormancy is another important measure. Remove fallen leaves and fruit debris from beneath the tree’s canopy, as these can harbor overwintering pests and disease spores. Examine the foliage, bark, and branches for any signs of issues. Addressing these concerns early can prevent them from worsening during the winter months and impacting the tree’s health in the following spring.
Fall Pruning for Cherry Trees
Pruning cherry trees in the fall requires careful consideration due to their susceptibility to diseases. Unlike many deciduous trees, cherry trees, especially sweet cherries (Prunus genus), are prone to Silver Leaf fungus (Chondrostereum purpureum). This fungal pathogen can infect trees through fresh wounds, particularly during cool, damp autumn and winter weather when fungal spores are active.
The general recommendation for routine cherry tree pruning is late summer, immediately after fruiting, or late winter to early spring before new growth. Pruning at these times allows wounds to heal more quickly and reduces the risk of Silver Leaf infection. If fall pruning is unavoidable, such as for removing dead, diseased, or damaged branches, it should be done during dry weather conditions.
When removing branches suspected of Silver Leaf, cut at least 4 to 6 inches below any visible signs of the disease. Always use sharp, clean tools to make precise cuts, and disinfect pruning tools between cuts, especially after working on infected wood, to prevent spreading pathogens. Allowing cuts to heal naturally is often preferred.