In most houses, no matter how big or small, or whether it is an apartment, the presence of plants is normal. There are different types, ornamental, fruit, floral, exotic, aquatic, etc.
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It is also possible to find them in different sizes and shapes. In other words, there are for all tastes and personalities. Plants bring freshness and greenness to the home. They make it look more cheerful and natural. Therefore, it is common for them to be used as part of the decoration of the place.
However, there are certain plants that have become a trend among nature lovers. Such is the case of bonsai, cacti, aquatic plants and cherry blossoms or Sakura. In relation to the latter in particular, it is the favorite of fans of oriental culture, not only for its unique beauty, but also for its characteristics and properties.
Although it is a tree that is related to the Asian continent, the truth is that this tree is present in almost all regions of the world where there is a temperate climate. However, it is believed that the sweet cherry reached Europe thanks to the intervention of migratory birds, which made their way from Southeast Asia, bringing seeds that were scattered.
If you are among the cherry blossom lovers, this article has been written for you. In it you will find everything you need to know about this flower of incomparable beauty and so popular, from the meaning it has been coined, to the care of the tree itself and its benefits for the human body.
So, without further ado, let’s get down to business and start our journey towards learning, which will enrich our knowledge in general. Let’s see it right now.
Instructions
The climate typical of temperate zones is ideal for its cultivation. However, for it to develop properly, it needs a climate with very long and cold winters, as well as hot summers.
While it is true that the tree can withstand -20 degrees, we cannot say the same about its flowers. They can suffer serious damage if the frosts are below -2 degrees. In addition, when they are late, they harm their fruits.
Initially, it is best to protect it from excess light. But, when it reaches the adult stage, it needs sunlight in its crown, at least 8 hours a day, so that it can develop properly.
This tree adapts to almost all types of soils, although it thrives best in those that are well aerated and have some porosity. In particular, limestone, because its roots reach great depth. It should also be moist, but well drained.
Regarding the way to pay it, during the month of March, give it a compound that contains nitrogen, potassium and phosphorus and, by the end of spring, one that has ammonium nitrate. Another good option is compost. But, as it is less concentrated, you will have to add a greater amount per tree, as well as control and correct any deficiencies that arise.
On the other hand, it is important that it is pruned so that it can generate a good production, both at the beginning of its plantation, and throughout its life.
This pruning consists of the elimination of dead, dry or withered elements, such as leaves, flowers and branches. But, the shoots that are born at the base of the trunk should also be cut, since they steal energy and nutrients from the tree.
The best time to prune it is during its dormant period, which occurs in early fall, to promote healing.
In relation to its irrigation, it is a type of fruit tree that actually requires little water. In fact, it suffers more when there is excess water. Therefore, it is important to be balanced with irrigation and never leave the ground waterlogged.
Its meaning
You need to know that, in Japan, the cherry tree is considered of great value and, in a certain way, it is related to the predominant religion of the country, that is, with Buddhism and the belief in reincarnation. For the samurai, this flower has a sacred value, since it is related to blood, with the sacrifice of his life and with its ephemeral nature.
In fact, it is believed that this flower is closely related to the kamikazes that participated in the Second World War. On the other hand, this flower is the protagonist of the Hanami party, where you can see how they bloom.
The cherry blossom represents the beauty and fleeting passage of man in the world, since its life cycle is similar to that of people themselves: they are born, live fully and then leave the tree to finally die and reconcile with the ground, where we come from.
In Japanese culture, it recalls all the philosophy linked to the culture of patience, respect for nature and peace and inner reconciliation. In the case of China, this flower represents the woman, due to her strength, security, delicacy and shining and proud sexuality.
What do you need:
The cherry tree is a straight tree with a wide crown and pyramidal shape, which can reach 25 meters in height and more than half a meter in diameter in its trunk. In relation to their years of life, these can extend up to one hundred years.
Its charming and unique flowers usually appear at the beginning of spring, before the leaves, at which time it becomes an icon of Japanese culture and idiosyncrasy. However, its flowering varies according to the climate of that particular year, just as it happens with other plants. Two months later, its fruits, that is, the cherries begin to develop.
In sweet cherry varieties, their fruit is usually darker, while in the case of more acid cherry trees, their color is more orange in appearance. They are a drupe type and have a globe or heart shape.
However, this tree is not only cultivated for its fruits. It has great appreciation, in the ornamental plane, thanks to its beautiful flowers, its leaves with a curious serrated edge in an oval shape that contrast very well.
On the other hand, in relation to its trunk, it is made up of a compact, heavy and hard wood, considered of great value for the manufacture of different furniture, instruments and for carving shapes and figures.
Tips
In addition to being beautiful, the cherry blossom is very useful. Some of its properties are the following:
- Infusions: cherry blossom has diuretic properties, as it combats fluid retention. It relieves the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome and has properties that give greater strength to the heart.
- For the skin: when the flower is boiled, it can be used to treat wounds, since it has healing properties. In addition, by applying the infusion to the face, you can combat pimples and blackheads.
- For the bones: since it has anti-rheumatic properties, this tree can be used in case of gout, arthritis and rheumatism.
- Food: its fruit has many nutritional properties, which make it an excellent food. On the other hand, its fruit favors digestion and, therefore, is recommended for people who suffer from constipation.
As you have been able to realize, the cherry blossom is not only an iconic symbol for Japanese culture, it is also a gift of nature for its fascinating beauty, but also for all and varied properties it has, which are worth knowing, in order to make the most of it.
