Weeping cherry tree problem. - Ask Extension
Our weeping cherry tree is about 25 years old. This spring when the leaves came out not all of them opened fully and were sparse. The bark is cracked ...
Knowledgebase
Weeping cherry tree problem. #365628
Asked September 25, 2016, 12:59 PM EDT
Our weeping cherry tree is about 25 years old. This spring when the leaves came out not all of them opened fully and were sparse. The bark is cracked and peeling in several places. Is this normal, if not what do you suggest to do. Thanks.
Lehigh County Pennsylvania
Expert Response
The life expectancy of a weeping cherry is 15-20 years, so perhaps your cherry is declining normally. Here is a quote from a horticulture publication. It seems like your tree has done very well.
"On average, ornamental cherry trees live between 15 and 20 years, but some varieties can survive longer with the correct care. For example, Yoshino cherries normally live only into their second decade, but some specimens in Washington, D.C., have survived since their donation in 1912 by the Japanese government. Higan cherry trees are among the most stress-, heat- and cold-tolerant varieties and tend to survive well past their 20th year."
"On average, ornamental cherry trees live between 15 and 20 years, but some varieties can survive longer with the correct care. For example, Yoshino cherries normally live only into their second decade, but some specimens in Washington, D.C., have survived since their donation in 1912 by the Japanese government. Higan cherry trees are among the most stress-, heat- and cold-tolerant varieties and tend to survive well past their 20th year."
