Flowering cherry trees can be a beautiful addition to any landscape, especially when they are in full bloom during the spring. However, it is important to note that these trees can become messy at other times of the year.
One of the common ornamental cherry trees, the kwanzan cherry (Prunus serrulata ‘Kwanzan’), is known for its stunning double pink flowers. When in bloom, these trees create a breathtaking display of color and fragrance. However, as the flowers begin to fade, they start to fall to the ground, creating a carpet of petals. While this can be quite enchanting for a short period, it can also create a mess in your yard. The fallen petals can accumulate on lawns, walkways, and driveways, requiring regular cleaning and maintenance.
Another popular flowering cherry tree is the yoshino cherry (Prunus x yedoensis), which is known for its delicate white blossoms. Like the kwanzan cherry, the yoshino cherry can also create a mess when its flowers start to drop. The petals can gather in large quantities, especially if you have multiple trees, and can be quite challenging to clean up. This can be particularly troublesome if you have a large yard or if the trees are located near outdoor living spaces.
In addition to the fallen petals, both types of flowering cherry trees can produce small fruit, commonly referred to as cherries. These fruits are not typically used for consumption, and they can also contribute to the messiness of the tree. As the cherries ripen and fall from the tree, they can create a mess on the ground below. This can attract birds and other wildlife, which may create additional cleanup tasks.
It is important to consider these factors when deciding to plant a flowering cherry tree in your landscape. While the beauty of their blooms is undeniable, the mess they can create may require extra effort and maintenance on your part. Regular cleaning of fallen petals and fruit may be necessary to keep your yard looking tidy.
Despite the potential mess, many people still choose to plant flowering cherry trees because of their stunning beauty and the joy they bring during the spring season. It is a personal decision that depends on your preferences and willingness to maintain your outdoor space. If you are willing to put in the effort to clean up the fallen petals and fruit, the beauty and elegance of flowering cherry trees can be well worth it.
While flowering cherry trees can be messy, especially when their petals and fruit fall to the ground, their beauty during the blooming season often outweighs the inconvenience. It is important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your own willingness to maintain and clean up after these trees before deciding to plant them in your landscape.
