The Japanese Cherry Blossom tree, or Sakura, primarily refers to ornamental varieties derived from species like Prunus serrulata and Prunus × yedoensis. These trees are highly sought after globally for their spectacular, short-lived spring floral display. Acquiring a healthy specimen requires understanding where to shop and what physical attributes to look for before purchase. This guide covers securing a high-quality young tree and ensuring its successful transition into a new landscape environment.
Identifying Reputable Sources for Purchase
Local, independent garden centers and nurseries are excellent venues for purchasing a cherry blossom tree. They usually offer stock proven to thrive in the specific local climate, and staff often provides specialized horticultural advice. Buying locally allows for an immediate, hands-on inspection of the tree’s overall condition and structure before purchase.
A broader range of cultivars is available through online specialty nurseries that ship directly to the consumer. These retailers often specialize in mail-order bare-root stock, which is lighter, cheaper to ship, and ideal for planting during the dormant season. Buying online requires careful vetting of the vendor’s reputation, as the plant cannot be inspected until it arrives.
Purchasing from large chain stores or big-box retailers presents a higher risk due to less specialized plant care and stock management. While these options may offer lower prices, the trees may have a limited selection of cultivars and might not be optimally cared for, potentially leading to a less vigorous plant.
Selecting the Right Cultivar and Tree Type
Once a reputable source is identified, the next step involves choosing the correct variety tailored to the desired aesthetic and local conditions. The ‘Kwanzan’ or ‘Kanzan’ cultivar (P. serrulata ‘Kwanzan’) is widely available, recognized for its vibrant, double pink flowers that emerge in dense clusters. For a more traditional, cloud-like display, the ‘Yoshino’ cherry (Prunus × yedoensis) is often selected, featuring abundant, delicate white to pale pink, single flowers.
Buyers must also consider the form of the nursery stock, which typically comes in three types. Bare-root stock consists of dormant trees with no soil around the roots. This is the most economical option, but they must be planted immediately upon receipt during late winter or early spring dormancy.
Containerized trees are grown in pots and can be planted across a much longer season, offering greater flexibility. Balled-and-burlapped (B&B) trees are larger, mature specimens dug from the field with their root systems wrapped in burlap. B&B stock is more expensive and heavier to transport but provides an instant, mature presence in the landscape.
Key Steps for Inspecting Tree Health Before Buying
A careful inspection of the prospective tree is necessary to ensure its long-term success before finalizing the purchase. Begin by examining the trunk for any abrasions, deep cracks, or signs of borers (small holes or sawdust accumulation). The trunk should exhibit a gradual taper, thickening toward the base, indicating proper development.
If the tree is containerized, check the point where the trunk widens at the soil line, known as the root flare. Ensure the root flare is visible and not buried deep within the container, as buried flares can lead to stem girdling roots, compromising health. If possible, lift the tree slightly out of its pot to look for roots that are tightly circling the container, which require correction before planting.
The branches should be well-spaced and securely attached to a strong central leader. Avoid narrow, V-shaped crotches that are structurally weak and prone to splitting. Visually scan the foliage and bark for any signs of disease, such as unusual spots or cankers, or the presence of insect pests like aphids or scale.
Post-Purchase Care: Transporting and Initial Planting
Once the cherry blossom tree is acquired, immediate attention must be given to its safe transport and initial establishment. During transit, the root ball (containerized or B&B) should be protected from harsh winds and drying out, which can quickly desiccate the fine root hairs. Bare-root specimens should have their roots kept consistently moist, wrapped in damp material, and shielded from direct sunlight until planting.
Selecting an appropriate planting location is the first step upon arriving home. Japanese Cherry Blossoms require at least six hours of direct sunlight daily to thrive and produce abundant blooms. The site must also offer well-drained soil, as these trees are highly susceptible to root rot if left in standing water.
The planting hole should be two to three times the diameter of the root ball, but no deeper than the height of the root ball itself. The tree must be planted with the root flare positioned slightly above the surrounding soil grade to prevent future settlement and moisture issues.
For B&B stock, any non-biodegradable materials, such as nylon string or plastic containers, must be completely removed from the root ball before backfilling. The final step is a thorough, slow watering immediately after planting to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets around the roots.