How Is a Weeping Cherry Tree Grafted?

Characteristics

• The weeping cherry tree (Prunus subhirtella) grows best in USDA Hardiness Zones 5A through 8B. It is not particular about soil types and grows equally well in clay, sand and loamy soils. Soil must be well-drained for the plant to perform at its peak. Dry soil also encourages pests. The weeping cherry prefers full sun and a wind break -- it does not tolerate strong winds well. It is an ideal tree for parks and large lawns.

Grafting Benefits

• Grafting has several general benefits for trees. The process can replace a damaged branch or trunk to bring health back to a tree or can join varieties for a showy display. Grafting also can create or mutate a species, such as the weeping cherry. The weeping cherry is, in fact, an erect tree that must be grafted to achieve its desired look. The weeping gene does not transfer in seedlings and they are often unsuccessful at growing fully without grafting. Nurseries graft weeping cherries to create full crowns of gracefully limp branches.

Grafting Method

• Weeping cherry trees are grafted through the whip grafting method, which joins two pieces of tree similar in size. This union creates new growth in as little as 3 weeks. Cut a tree branch of 1/2 inch or less in diameter 1 foot from the trunk at an angle, such that the actual exposed, cut surface is about 1 1/2 inches long. Cut a scion, or bud stick, of similar size at the same angle. Slice the rootstock branch across the angled cut. Insert the scion into the slice with angled cuts facing each other. Wrap the joint tightly in grafting tape and cover it with grafting compound. After growth begins, remove the tape -- the union is complete.

Considerations

• Tree grafting is not always successful, even when great care is taken. The weeping cherry is more tolerant of grafting than other cherry varieties, but it must be done correctly to reduce the risk of damage to the tree. Hardwood cuttings generally do not produce desired results as well as softwoods. Growth can be slow, so patience is necessary. You may need to attempt the grafting several times before it is successful.