The Pink Flair Cherry Tree (Prunus sargentii ‘JFS-KW58’) is a popular ornamental choice, celebrated for its aesthetic appeal in varied landscapes. It offers year-round visual interest, making it a favored addition for homeowners. Its adaptability allows it to thrive in diverse climates. Its upright, compact form suits both spacious gardens and urban environments.
What Makes Pink Flair Unique
The Pink Flair Cherry Tree distinguishes itself with several notable characteristics. In early spring, before leaves emerge, the tree becomes adorned with abundant clusters of fragrant, single pink flowers. These blossoms create a striking, vibrant pink display. Its bloom time is typically a week or two later than many other cherry varieties, helping it avoid frost damage.
Foliage emerges reddish in spring, turning forest green in summer. In autumn, these leaves transform into vibrant orange and scarlet, providing a rich display of fall color. At maturity, it reaches 20 to 25 feet tall with a 10 to 15-foot spread, maintaining a narrow, upright, vase-shaped form. Its smooth, reddish-brown bark adds textural interest, especially in winter.
Planting Your Pink Flair Cherry Tree
Planting a Pink Flair Cherry Tree begins with careful site selection. It thrives in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering and growth. Soil must be well-draining, as the tree does not tolerate standing water. Good drainage is paramount, though it adapts to most soil types.
Dig a hole as deep as the root ball but at least twice as wide, allowing roots ample space. Gently remove the tree from its container and loosen circling roots. Position the tree in the center, ensuring the root ball top is level with or slightly above the soil surface, and the graft union is at least one inch above the soil. Backfill with excavated soil, tamping gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Ongoing Care for Pink Flair
Consistent watering is important, especially during the first growing season, to help establish a strong root system. After planting, thoroughly soak the ground around the roots. Once established, water every 7 to 10 days, or when topsoil dries, avoiding overwatering. Direct water to the roots, keeping foliage dry to reduce foliar diseases.
Fertilization supports robust growth and flowering. For newly planted trees, incorporate a granular starter plant food at planting. If planted in spring or summer, begin annual fertilization in late fall with a granular starter plant food for three years. For fall plantings, apply fertilizer at planting and annually the following fall. Mature trees generally benefit from an annual application of a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer in early spring, following product instructions.
Pruning helps maintain the tree’s structure and overall health. Prune in late winter, after extreme cold, or immediately after flowering to ensure maximum blossoms. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches to promote air circulation and light penetration. For young trees, light pruning shapes the tree and removes water sprouts or suckers.
Addressing Common Pink Flair Problems
Pink Flair Cherry Trees are generally low-maintenance but can encounter certain issues. Stress signs, like wilting leaves or lack of blooms, often indicate inadequate watering or poor drainage. Ensuring sufficient, but not excessive, water and well-draining soil can prevent many problems.
Cherry trees are susceptible to fungal diseases like powdery mildew, which appears as white, powdery patches on leaves, and brown rot, causing blossoms and fruit to turn brown. Bacterial canker may also occur, appearing as sunken bark areas with possible gumming. Pests like aphids can cause leaves to curl and attract ants due to honeydew. Regular inspection allows early identification. Addressing environmental factors and maintaining good garden hygiene, such as removing fallen leaves, helps mitigate these issues.