How to Plant an Ornamental Cherry Tree

Planting a bare root ornamental cherry tree is one of those deeply satisfying gardening projects, simple, seasonal, and full of promise. With just a bit of preparation and care, you can set your tree up to thrive for decades, rewarding you with clouds of blossoms each spring.

What Is a Bare Root Tree?

A bare root tree is exactly what it sounds like: a young tree sold without soil around its roots. These trees are typically dug up during dormancy (late fall through early spring), making them easier to transport and often more affordable than potted trees. Because they’re dormant, they also adapt quickly to their new home when planted correctly.

When to Plant

The ideal time to plant a bare root ornamental cherry tree is in late winter to early spring, while the tree is still dormant and the ground is workable. This gives the roots time to establish before the growing season begins.

What You’ll Need

• Bare root ornamental cherry tree. I planted 3 Kwanzen ornamental cherry trees.
• Shovel
• Compost or well-rotted organic matter
• Mulch (wood chips, bark, or straw)
• Water source
• Stakes (optional, for windy areas)

Step-by-Step Planting Guide

1. Soak the Roots

Before planting, place the tree’s roots in a bucket of water for 1–3 hours. This rehydrates them after storage and helps reduce transplant shock.

2. Choose the Right Location

Ornamental cherry trees thrive in:

• Full sun (at least 6 hours daily)
• Well-draining soil
• A spot with good air circulation to prevent disease

Make sure to give your tree enough space to grow to its mature width and height.

3. Dig the Hole

Dig a hole that is:

• Twice as wide as the root spread
• Deep enough so the tree sits at the same depth it was previously grown (look for a slight color change on the trunk as a guide)

Loosen the soil at the bottom to help roots penetrate easily.

4. Position the Tree

Create a small mound of soil in the center of the hole and spread the roots over it. This encourages natural root growth outward and downward.

Ensure the graft union (a slight bulge on the trunk) sits just above soil level.

5. Backfill the Hole

Fill the hole with the original soil, mixing in compost if needed. Gently firm the soil as you go to eliminate air pockets—but don’t compact it too tightly.

6. Water Thoroughly

Water deeply right after planting. This helps settle the soil and ensures good root-to-soil contact.

7. Mulch the Base

Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.

8. Stake If Necessary

If your planting site is windy, stake the tree loosely to provide support during its first year. Remove stakes once the tree is established.

Aftercare Tips

• Water regularly during the first growing season, especially during dry spells
• Avoid fertilizing immediately; let the tree establish first
• Prune only lightly in the first year, removing dead or damaged branches
• Watch for pests or disease, especially in humid conditions

A Note on Patience

Ornamental cherry trees are beloved for their breathtaking blossoms, but they do require a little patience. Your tree may take a year or two to fully settle in—but once it does, the spring display is well worth the wait.

Planting a bare root tree connects you to the rhythms of the seasons in a way few other gardening tasks can. With the right start, your ornamental cherry will become a centerpiece in your landscape—offering beauty, shade, and a yearly celebration of spring.