Weeping Yoshino Cherry Not Blooming: Fertilizer Fix

A 3-year-old Yoshino weeping cherry in Virginia has grown 1 foot total, weeping branches reach the curb, but no blooms. Garden center advised fertilizing and patience; now offers credit.

The Nitrogen Trap

High-nitrogen fertilizer (lawn type) promotes leaves, not flowers. The tree likely received too much nitrogen.

Switch to Bloom Formula

Use fertilizer low in nitrogen, high in phosphorus (e.g., 5-30-5). Phosphorus drives flower bud formation. Apply in summer when plants set next year's buds. Avoid weed-and-feed products.

Other Factors

• Age: Some cultivars bloom at 3–5 years.
• Sun: Needs full sun for best flowering.
• Pruning: Prune only after flowering to avoid removing buds.

Correct the fertilizer, ensure sun, and wait one more season.