- 1). Choose a planting site for weeping cherry that gets plenty of sun but is sheltered from north winds and harsh weather. Avoid planting near buried utilities. If you've purchased a Higan weeping cherry, avoid planting it under power lines, because this variety reaches a height of 40 to 50 feet.
- 2). Plant in the fall, when the tree is dormant and less vulnerable to transplant shock. Dig a hole with a shovel as deep as the tree's container and 2 feet wider in diameter.
- 3). Fill a bucket with water. Pour half of it in the planting hole. If it drains quickly, proceed. If not, amend the soil with equal parts peat and sand until it drains freely and well.
- 4). Tap the bottom and sides of the container with your hand to loosen the weeping cherry. Grasp it by the base of the trunk and gently pull it free. Examine the roots. If they are coiled, knock some of the soil away and spread them with your fingers.
- 5). Set the weeping cherry tree in the hole. Step back and check to see that it's standing straight. Adjust if necessary.
- 6). Backfill the hole with amended soil, pressing it firmly against the roots to eliminate air spaces that can dry them out. Water generously when you're finished to help reduce transplant shock to the roots. Continue watering once a week for the first three weeks to help the tree get well established before winter.
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