Environment

• Prunus virginiana grows in both full sun and partial shade, although the tree produces more flowers if grown in full sun. It grows in a wide variety of soils but does best in a well-drained loam. If you have heavy soil, amend it with 3 to 4 inches of sand before planting the tree. Older trees may lose branches in winter storms, so site the tree away from the house and other structures.
  
  

Water

• Prunus virginiana is a drought-tolerant tree, so be careful not to overwater it. Let the top 3 inches of soil dry between irrigations. When you do water, provide it slowly. A drip irrigation system is ideal for this, but a soaker hose, placed at the tree's dripline, will work. If you spread mulch, such as shredded bark or pine needles, on the soil around the tree you won't have to water the tree very often. Mulch acts as a moisture retainer and reduces evaporation by up to 35 percent.
  
  

Fertilizer

• P. virginiana requires little fertilizer. In the spring of every other year, apply a 5-7-2 fertilizer at the rate listed on the label for the size and age of your tree to the soil around the tree. Begin the application 1 foot from the trunk and spread it out 3 feet beyond the dripline. Drag a rake over the area to scratch the fertilizer into the soil and then water to a depth of 6 inches.
  
  

Pests and Disease

• Aphids are attracted to the P. virginiana but are easily controlled. A hard shot of water from the hose will knock them off the foliage. For large infestations, use an insecticidal soap spray, according to label instructions. Aphids must be completely covered with the spray. P.virginiana is susceptible to several diseases, but black knot is a particular problem. It is caused by a fungus, and chokecherry trees grown in the southeastern part of the country are especially vulnerable. The main symptom of the disease is a large, black bump, or knot, growing on the woody parts of the tree. To manage the disease, remove infected branches by cutting them 4 inches away from the knot. Burn or dispose of diseased wood and disinfect your pruning equipment after using.
  
  

Pruning

• Other than pruning the Prunus virginiana to remove diseased wood, which should be done in the winter, an annual cleanup of the tree will keep it healthy and growing to the shape you desire. Cut off any new shoots growing from the soil close to the base of the plant. These are known as suckers and should be cut down below the soil. Prune the middle of the canopy to open it up to more air circulation. Cut these branches or stems back to a lateral branch.