| I received a Prunus subhirtella 'Pendula' Double Weeping Cherry tree for Mothers Day. I'm concerned that it has no leaves. Is this normal? |
| If you planted this tree last year and are still waiting for it to bloom and leaf out, there may be a problem. This plant is considered winter hardy into zone 5. According to your zip code, you are gardening in zone 5A or the coldest part of zone 5. In an exposed or windy spot, the microclimate in your garden could be as cold as zone 4, so you might have lost it over the winter. If the tree was just purchased, and if it was sold bare-root, then it would need some time to come out of dormancy. Keep the soil slightly damp like a wrung out sponge so the tree stays hydrated. You can check to see if it is alive. Live wood will have green just inside the bark, the branches will be supple, the buds will be plump and firm. Dead wood will be off color brown or gray, is brittle and will snap in your hand, and has no gree inside the bark. The buds will be dried out or will have fallen off. I hope this helps you trouble shoot. If the tree is brand new, please contact the retail store directly if you are still concerned. |
