Redbud Tree Care | The Best Practices

Redbud trees are one of the very first trees to bloom in spring and boy do they put on a show! This tree isn’t as well know as it is well recognized. You may overlook most blooming trees on a walk in the park or your drive home from work, but redbuds stand out with vivid pink and purple blooms that literally coat the otherwise naked tree in early spring. Purchase large redbud trees at our online plant nursery and have them conveniently delivered to your home.

You may be surprised to learn this is a very easy tree to grow in your own yard. In fact once it is established you really don’t need to do anything for this tree to survive. Follow our Redbud tree care tips so your Redbud tree can thrive.

Planting Redbud Tree

1. Dig a hole about twice the width and about as deep as the root ball.

2.Place your tree level in the hole. You want your tree to be slightly above the existing soil line. Planting too deep can cause your tree to struggle and even die.

3. Fill the hole with water. Yes, even before you fill the soil in around the roots. New trees like a lot of water. This helps their roots establish properly and quickly.

4. Backfill the soil and tamp it down to remove air pockets. Do not stomp on the ground as it can compact the soil and make it harder for your tree to get established.

5. Fertilize with a balanced slow release fertilizer. This type of fertilizer is safe for new plantings and gives your tree a great start.

6. Mulch your Redbud tree with 1 to 2 inches of mulch extended at least a few inches past the root zone. Mulch helps the ground retain moisture and keeps competing weeds at bay. Do not pile up mulch against the trunk. This can cause moisture to get trapped and invite pests and diseases to damage your tree.

7. Water again until the ground is saturated. Water deeply at least twice a week for the first month and once weekly for months 2 and 3 while your tree is establishing. It is better for your tree and its roots for you to water heavily less often that just a little every day. We recommend using a hose with no attachments and just letting it run until the water starts pooling.

Redbud Tree Care

Location

With redbuds it is pretty easy to pick a spot since they are so versatile and adaptable. They like full sun to part shade and are adaptable to any soil as long as there isn’t standing water.

Water

Once established, redbud trees are very drought tolerant. In extended dry and hot periods this tree will benefit from a weekly deep watering.

Fertilizer

Fertilize your Redbud tree in early spring for best performance. Choose a balanced slow release fertilizer.

Pruning

Redbuds don't generally require pruning, but if needed, prune immediately after blooming has ended to remove any dead, dying, crowded or crossed branches. Pruning in winter can cause bloom loss.