The cherry blossom tree, a flowering ornamental cherry from the genus Prunus, is globally recognized for its spectacular, yet fleeting, springtime display. These deciduous trees are cultivated for their dense clusters of white or pink blossoms, making them highly desirable additions to residential and public landscapes. Determining the total financial investment for a cherry blossom tree involves more than just the initial purchase price, as the final cost is highly variable. Several factors, including the tree’s size, the chosen cultivar, and the expenses associated with planting and long-term care, contribute significantly to the overall expense.
Purchase Price Variables
The initial cost of a cherry blossom tree is primarily dictated by its size and the method used to grow it at the nursery.
Bare-root saplings, which are typically sold dormant and without soil, represent the most budget-friendly option, often priced between $20 and $50 for a small specimen. These young trees establish quickly because their roots are not restricted, but they require diligent care immediately after planting.
Moving up the cost scale are container-grown trees, which are sold in plastic pots and range from $50 to $150 for smaller sizes up to 5 feet tall. This stock type offers planting flexibility outside the dormant season and generally suffers less transplant shock.
The largest investment is the balled-and-burlapped (B&B) specimen, which is dug up from the field with its root ball intact and wrapped in burlap. Large, mature B&B cherry trees, often 8 feet tall or more, can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000, reflecting the years of nursery care and the specialized equipment needed to handle them.
The specific cultivar also influences the purchase price. Popular varieties like Prunus x yedoensis (‘Yoshino’) or Prunus serrulata (‘Kwanzan’) are widely available and moderately priced due to mass production. Rarer types, such as those with unique colors like the yellowish ‘Ukon’ or weeping forms, may command a premium price. Purchasing from a local, specialized nursery often guarantees higher quality and acclimatization to the local environment, but may be more expensive than buying from a large online retailer or a big-box store.
Professional Installation Expenses
Beyond the tree’s purchase price, the expense of getting it properly situated in the landscape can add substantial costs, especially when hiring professionals. Delivery and transportation fees are a major consideration, particularly for larger trees that require specialized handling or heavy equipment. While some local nurseries include delivery within a service area, longer distances can incur charges.
Labor costs for professional planting are directly proportional to the size of the tree being installed. Planting a small container-grown tree may cost a few hundred dollars. However, the labor for a large, heavy B&B tree can easily involve a crew and machinery, pushing total installation costs well over $1,000. Professional landscapers or arborists will charge for the time and expertise required to dig the proper hole, set the root flare correctly, and backfill with care.
Site preparation may introduce additional expenses that are often folded into the installation quote. This can include soil testing, which is important for identifying deficiencies or pH imbalances, as cherry trees thrive in slightly acidic conditions. Initial soil amendments or specialized planting mixes may be required to improve drainage and nutrient content, ensuring the tree has the best chance to establish a strong root system.
Long-Term Maintenance Costs
The total cost of ownership extends well past the planting day, requiring an ongoing financial commitment for proper maintenance.
Pruning is a recurring expense, necessary to maintain the tree’s health, structure, and ornamental appearance. Hiring a certified arborist for this specialized work is recommended, especially for mature trees. Service fees range from $100 to over $400 for small trees, and significantly higher for larger specimens requiring advanced equipment.
Pest and disease management is another recurring cost, as cherry trees are susceptible to issues like Black Knot Fungus or various borers. Treating an established infestation can cost between $100 and $500 or more for specialized products or professional applications. Regular monitoring and proactive treatment are necessary to prevent long-term damage and decline.
Watering and fertilization contribute to the annual budget, particularly during the first few years as the tree establishes itself. Cherry trees require consistent moisture, and an annual application of fertilizer in the spring helps support their heavy flowering. Homeowners can expect to spend $150 to $400 annually for seasonal fertilization services if they choose to outsource this routine task. The ultimate financial risk is the need for replacement, which can occur if the tree fails to establish or dies prematurely.