It’s been too long since we last glanced the pretty pink blooms in our neighbour’s garden. Cherry blossom season is taking place in our neighbouring countries, so here’s a look at how to grow your own blossoms when springtime hits.
Sure, winter is only just on its way, but nothing signifies the end of winter quite like a blooming cherry blossom tree.
Interested in growing your own? Read on to find out how.
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Nothing says spring like these pink blooms. Picture: Getty
What are cherry blossoms?
“A cherry blossom tree is characterised by the specific flower produced by any one of several trees of genus Prunus,” says Lyndall Keating, horticulturist and director of Garden Society.
“Prunus serrulata is perhaps the most popular of the bunch, and the blooms are known as sakura in Japan where they are most-widely known to flower.”
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How cherry blossom varieties differ
Different varieties of the deciduous trees will showcase varying hues of pinks – some mulberry-toned, others bright white – and the blooms generally emit a soft and sheer floral scent.
“Aside from colour, sakura trees can also differ according to number of petals, fragrance, blooming seasons, tree leaves and cherry tree shapes,” Lyndall explains.
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Yes, you can grow cherry blossoms in Australia! Picture: Getty
Can cherry blossoms grow in Australia?
You bet! While you won’t typically find them in the city CBDs, cherry blossoms are grown extensively in the cold-climate and mountain areas of Australia.
“There are, however, some species which can be grown in warmer, coastal areas of Australia,” says Lyndall, adding that you may be lucky enough to spot some peachy blooms in the ‘burbs.
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When do cherry blossoms bloom?
Cherry blossoms make their appearance once a year for approximately two weeks in the peak of spring, although high winds, rain and unseasonal heat or chill can reduce this time.
Blooming dates will vary year-on-year and between Australian cities, but in 2017, the Auburn Botanic Gardens in Sydney was tickled pink with blossoms between August 18 and 27.
Drive two hours to the Blue Mountains, and you can spot cherry blossoms from September up until early October. And Melbourne usually experiences sakura season around the same time.
The cherry blossom transforms throughout a year. Picture: Getty
How to grow a cherry blossom
“Ideally, cherry blossoms will be planted in full sun, partial or mostly shady areas with deep, fertile soil,” says Lyndall.
“The soil should be well drained but kept moist. An acidic soil environment is preferred by cherry blossoms, however it can adapt to different PH levels.
“Cherry blossoms prefer an open space with not too much exposure to strong winds as the beautiful blossoms can blow away.”
5 expert tips to grow cherry blossoms
- Select a tree which is sized to suit your garden most appropriately.
- Flower colour is important so choose wisely, considering the overall appearance of your garden.
- A cherry blossom is a lovely choice as an ornamental feature in your garden. Ensure you position it carefully, providing the space and location it deserves.
- Keep your cherry blossom watered and fertilised for best results.
- Importantly, appreciate and enjoy the seasonal colour it provides, from foliage to flowers.
The Somei Yoshino has pretty white flowers. Picture: Getty
Wondering which tree might best suit your garden? Check out these common varieties and their characteristics.
Prunus Kanzan – Vase-like in shape with rich, pink double flowers, these trees can become very broad over time.
Prunus Kiku-shidare-zakura – A truly stunning tree with weeping branches smothered with rich, deep pink flowers with clustered petals.
Prunus Shirotae – A smaller but broad tree with a spreading flattened crown and arching branches with white blooms.
Prunus Amanogawa – The flagpole cherry is narrow and erect, bearing plenty of pale pink flowers.
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