Snow Fountains cherry tree a winner in four seasons
Trees are both the keystone and the foundation of our landscapes. I’m always looking for special trees that bring these qualities to my garden. One of my favorites is ‘Snofozam’ weeping cherry, better known as Snow Fountains.
It is truly beautiful four-season tree. In spring, the branches of this small weeping tree are covered by a profusion of white, snowy blossoms — a magical sight. Each season that follows also has a special quality and its own unique statement. The dark green summer foliage turns red, gold and apricot in autumn. And the winter silhouette is stunning, with beautiful bare cascading branches that eventually are covered with small buds, holding the promise of spring.
Snow Fountains is a small, slow-growing tree that at maturity will measure only 8-12 feet tall and 6 feet wide, making it perfect for smaller landscapes. Since it is a unique specimen, it should be positioned where it can receive daily recognition. The one requirement is that it be planted in full sun — at least five or six hours daily.
This is a grafted tree that grows on the rootstock of a wild cherry. It grows up, then over, resulting in a cascade of weeping branches. If left intact, the branches will continue their downward flow until they meet the ground.
I prefer the umbrella or halfmoon effect, which allows the tree to grow up and out. To get this look, prune the branches the same length and keep the top rounded. Remove any branches that point upward to maintain symmetry. No matter how it’s grown, Snow Fountains is a spectacular sight.
As with any grafted tree, pay careful attention to the rootstock and prune out any suckers that appear near the base or below the graft. These will continue to accelerate and
threaten the beauty of the top graft. Pruning for shape is best done during dormancy, but pruning out these relentless suckers can be done at any time. Cut them as soon as you see them; removing these blemishes is preserving the beauty of the tree.
Plant Snow Fountains in very well-drained soil. Any newly established tree needs water, but overwatering can result in root rot. This cultivar is especially sensitive to boglike soil. When I plant a new tree, I place a hose on top of the root system and start a very slow drip for an hour. Pay attention to the leaves. They tell you when they need more moisture. They either droop or lack luster and fullness.
Snow Fountains is so pretty and diverse in both weeping and topiary forms. Why not buy two and enjoy the beauty of both?