Can Cherry Tree Branches Be Forced?

Cherry Branches

• The best branches for forcing are young, healthy, pencil-thick branches that display a large number of buds. The best length for forcing is 2 to 3 feet. This is a good time to prune out crowded branches or those that detract from the plant's natural shape. Cut close to the tree and avoid leaving unsightly stubs. Be sure the buds are flower buds, which are rounder and plumper than leaf buds, which are smaller and more angular. If you can't tell the difference, cut open a few buds to determine if they contain the beginning of a new leaf or a flower. Cut more branches than you need, because there's a good chance that not all will successfully bloom.

Preparation

• To help the branches absorb water, slit the bottom of each stem twice so when you look at the bottom of the branch, the cut looks like a cross. Make the slits 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. Some gardeners like to mash the ends of the stems with a hammer, but this isn't necessary and may be detrimental if it prevents water from entering the stem. Place the branches in a sink, basin or tub of cool water so they are completely submerged, and then leave them overnight. If you don't have a large tub, wrap the branches in wet newspapers. This soaking helps the branches absorb water quickly and end their normal dormant period.

Forcing

• After soaking overnight, put the cherry branches in a bucket with a few inches of cool water. Pull off leaves and buds that are under the water but leave the upper leaves and buds intact. You can add a commercial or homemade floral preservative to the water at this point, but a couple of drops of bleach serves the same purpose. Put the branches in a cool, dark area and leave them until buds show -- usually two to six weeks. Branches that are closer to flowering when you but them will require a shorter chilling time. Refresh the water at least once every week and add water as needed to maintain the same depth.

Blooming

• When the buds appear, you can arrange the branches in a vase or other container and move them to a display location in a well-lit room. However, avoid direct sunlight, which shortens the life of the blossoms. To extend the vase life of the blossoms, move the branches into a cool room, with overnight temperatures between 40 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit.