Prunus subhirtella fukubana

It prefers full sun, which is essential for abundant flowering. However, it should be protected during the hottest hours of summer with light shade. It tolerates cold well in winter, but it is advisable to shelter it from severe and prolonged frosts, especially if grown in a bonsai pot.

The common watering rule, which dictates watering whenever the soil feels dry to the touch, is also ideal in this case. However, consider that during hotter periods and in strong winds, watering is necessary more frequently. Often, in these cases, the soil risks remaining completely dry. It is also important to keep in mind that both a lack of water and an excess of water can cause serious problems for the plant. Particular care should also be taken to never spray water directly on the flowers, as this can cause premature wilting and compromise fruit production.

Repotting should be done annually for young specimens and every 2-3 years for older ones. The ideal time is immediately after flowering, when the plant has completed its primary ornamental phase. Repotting is also possible in the fall, after the leaves have fallen. During repotting, the most vigorous roots can be shortened. A substrate that ensures good drainage is recommended.

Pruning varies depending on the plant's stage. For developing specimens, it is done in the spring, generally leaving two buds to encourage fine, harmonious branching. It is important to avoid pruning in the winter, to avoid sap loss. For mature specimens, pruning is aimed at flowering: it is done immediately after flowering, shortening the branches and stimulating the production of new buds. Flower buds form during the summer and are easily recognizable because they are larger and rounder than leaf buds.

Pinching is performed after flowering, working on new shoots when they have developed 3-4 leaves, reducing them to 1-2 leaves. This technique helps contain growth and improve branching. It is important to stop pinching in early summer to allow the plant to properly form flower buds for the following year.

Wiring is not always necessary and should be applied with caution, as Fukubana branches are quite delicate. The shape is achieved primarily through targeted pruning.

After flowering and pruning, you can begin fertilizing regularly, using a balanced fertilizer every 10-15 days until autumn, suspending during the hottest periods of summer. Proper fertilization is essential to support both vegetative growth and future flowering.

Prunus subhirtella 'Fukubana' is a fairly hardy species. However, it is important to monitor for any aphid attacks or fungal diseases, especially in spring, intervening promptly to keep the plant healthy.