April 2024 NEW _ Layout 1 04 / 04 / 2024 11:09 Page 27
season more subtly . Varieties such as Prunus ‘ Kanzan ’ produce pink fluffy clouds of double blossom , while P . ‘ Pink Perfection ’ is a slightly smaller version on which its delectable candyfloss flowers last slightly longer than most . Some regard ornamental cherries as ‘ one-trick-ponies ’ as the blossom is fleeting – but what a trick to have up your sleeve .
If you are considering planting a flowering cherry in the garden , bear in mind that the spread of most Prunus varieties is almost equal to the height . You need to allow room for the spread because if it is pruned too much , the shape will be distorted . Far better to consider one of the upright , fastigiate varieties of spring-flowering cherry trees . Prunus ‘ Amanogawa ’ is a great one for small gardens because of its upright shape . Expect it to grow to a height of up to seven metres but with a spread of only two or three .
If you look at your spring garden and feel it is bereft of colour , this is the perfect time to remedy the problem so that you ’ ll have something much more joyful next year . Gardening is all about thinking ahead whilst enjoying the moment . Just remember that any trees or shrubs you plant now will need watering throughout the drier months ahead .
By Caroline Knight
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