Question
I was successful starting roots on a branch of a very old quanzen Cherry by cutting the outer bark and putting a ball of dirt around the wound. The tree seems to be thriving in the pot and even bloomed this spring. Still, the leaves are very tender and the branches are a little springy. I let it sit out overnight for the first time last night and sit in a storm even (up until now this has been a very pampered plant) How will I know when it's time to put it in the ground? especially now that I am so emotionally attached to the darned thing.

Rich in Ohio

Answer
Richard, you can transplant the sapling approximately 8 weeks after you first propagated. A sure sign is when new growth begins to sprout. You should not not have a problem this time of year, but make sure all danger of frost has past.

I highly recommend you plant the sapling in a location that gets full sun. Also fill the planting hole with organic soil comprised of peat, compost, and aged manure. This will get the plant off to a good start.

Finally water the plant deeply twice per week; more if the temperatures get hot. Then mulch around the base of the plant with shredded leaves, bark, or straw to retain moisture and keep the soil at at a constant temperature.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike