Prunus serr. 'Kanzan'

Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan', also known as the Japanese flowering cherry or 'Kwanzan' cherry, is a stunning deciduous tree celebrated for its profuse, double pink blossoms that appear in spring. This ornamental tree is ideal for adding a touch of elegance to gardens, parks, and avenues. To ensure its optimal health and beautiful flowering, here are comprehensive care details organized under three main headings: planting, watering and feeding, and pruning and maintenance.

Planting

• Site Selection:

  • Choose a location with full sun exposure. Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' thrives best in full sun, which promotes vigorous growth and abundant flowering. It needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
  • Ensure the site has good air circulation to help prevent fungal diseases but is sheltered from strong, drying winds.

• Soil Preparation:

  • Plant in well-draining soil. Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
  • Amend heavy clay soils with organic matter such as compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage. Sandy soils can also benefit from added organic matter to enhance moisture retention.

• Planting Process:

  • Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and the same depth. This allows the roots to spread easily.
  • Mix the excavated soil with compost to enrich it.
  • Place the cherry tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
  • Backfill with the soil mixture, firming gently to eliminate air pockets.
  • Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil around the roots.
  • Mulch around the base of the tree with organic material to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping mulch away from direct contact with the trunk.

Watering and Feeding

• Watering:

  • Water regularly during the first growing season to establish a deep, extensive root system. Once established, Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from consistent moisture.
  • Water deeply, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
  • During dry periods, water the tree weekly. In cooler months, reduce watering frequency as the tree’s growth slows.

• Feeding:

  • Feed with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring as new growth begins.
  • An additional feeding in midsummer can promote healthy foliage and abundant blooms.
  • Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers.
  • Incorporate organic matter, such as compost, into the soil annually to maintain soil fertility.

Pruning and Maintenance

• Pruning:

  • Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins to maintain the tree’s shape and encourage healthy growth. Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' flowers on old wood, so avoid heavy pruning after buds have set.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased wood promptly to maintain plant health.
  • Thin out older branches to improve air circulation and light penetration within the canopy.

• Deadheading:

  • Deadheading is generally not necessary for Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' as it naturally sheds its spent flowers. However, removing spent blooms can enhance the tree's appearance if desired.

• Pest and Disease Control:

  • Monitor regularly for common pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and scale insects. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil for infestations.
  • Prevent fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot by ensuring good air circulation and proper watering practices.
  • Remove any affected foliage promptly and dispose of it to prevent the spread of disease.

Winter Protection

• Winter Care:
  • Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' is generally hardy but may benefit from some protection in areas with harsh winters.
  • Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree in late fall to insulate the roots from cold temperatures.
  • In regions with severe frost, consider using a frost cloth or burlap to protect the tree from extreme cold and wind.

Safety Considerations

• Avoiding Transplant Shock:
  • When transplanting, ensure that the tree is well-watered and that the root ball is kept intact to avoid transplant shock.
  • Transplant in early spring or fall when the tree is dormant to minimize stress.

Summary

Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' is a breathtaking ornamental tree that enhances garden aesthetics with its spectacular, double pink blossoms and elegant form. By selecting an appropriate planting site, ensuring regular watering and feeding, and practicing diligent pruning and maintenance, you can enjoy the stunning beauty and continuous flowering of this cherry tree. With proper care, Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' will thrive, providing a vivid display of color and elegance in your garden space

• Size
  12L

We currently only deliver within the island of Ireland, other countries can be quoted for by contacting [email protected] or via telephone on 06964084
 

Standard Delivery is FREE on orders over €250*

All standard deliveries will be completed within 5-7 working days via Fastway Couriers, any delay to this delivery time, the customer will be notified by One of our staff.

The in-Store delivery charge will vary compared with online, in-store delivery charge is done on a case by case basis. 

* Only mainland Ireland addresses qualify for free delivery.
 

Live Plants Delivery

Our live plants are packed with care and diligence by our staff, our horticulturists review each plant before despatch to ensure quality is maintained.
Live Plant delivery charges are not calculated on weight but on the space required per package to ensure safe delivery, so delivery charges may vary as some plants require more space than others when packed.
All live plants are despatched within 3-5 working days where possible, our couriers aim to deliver within 48 hours of despatch from our Garden Centre to allow the plant to arrive in healthy condition.
 

Click & Collect

Can’t wait for delivery? Why not try our FREE Click & Collect service? Simply make your purchase online and collect it from our store located in Croagh Co. Limerick. Our staff will contact you by phone when your order is ready for collection (Please allow 24 hours minimum). When collecting your item, call the store on 069-64084. We will then load into your car as required. This service is available in-store 9am – 6pm Monday – Saturday (No collections on Sundays)

Click here for more information about our shipping conditions.

You can pay your online order either by credit card or via Paypal.
If you have any further questions about the online order payment please contact us via ­069 640 84 or mail.