Stunted Cherry Tree Recovery: Water, Mulch, and Soil Testing

A 6‑year‑old cherry in Mountain View, CA (zone 9) is only 9 ft tall. After weekly deep watering started in January, it bloomed heavily (150‑200 flowers). Can it still reach 20 ft? Yes, if limiting factors (water, nutrients, soil) are addressed. Mulch 2‑3″ over root zone. Fertilize with a generic tree/shrub formula after a soil test (A&L Labs in Modesto offers affordable analysis). UC Davis Home Orchard website has excellent cherry care guides. Adequate winter chill (vernalization) is met in Northern CA.