REDBUD TREE

The Redbud, its most popular varieties –the Eastern Redbud and the Oklahoma Redbud – is a beautiful small tree known for its blooming habit in early springtime. Redbud trees like full sun or partial shade with moist, well-drained alkaline or acidic soil. Air circulation is a big deal to the Redbud, so placement is key to reduce the chance of exposing the tree to fungal attacks or diseases. With a vertical height of 20 to 26 feet, the Redbud tree has elegant red flowers that grow out of the trunk and branches in the spring, followed by pink leaves that later turn green – the show is a seasonal spectacle for your yard.

How to Care for The Eastern Redbud Tree

Pruning

Sterilize your pruning tools with rubbing alcohol for healthy, clean cuts the Eastern Redbud prefers. To control the growth of your Eastern Redbud tree into a moderate size, pruning it while it is young is a necessity. Early in the summer during the blooming stage is the best time of year to prune your Eastern Redbud tree. Carefully prune entwined branches and any wood that is brown appearing to be diseased. Remove shoots coming up from the bottom or out of the trunk directly.

Fertilizing

The Eastern Redbud prefers a dry, pelleted fertilizer also known as granular. Early in the spring, apply a complete granular form fertilizer in 5-10-5 moderation. Disperse fertilizer in equal proportion around your plant’s root axis while following the instructions. Yearly fertilization coupled with maintaining several inches of organic mulch year-round is likely sufficient to feed the soil for your tree.

How to Care for Oklahoma Redbud Tree

The Oklahoma Redbud is the state tree of Oklahoma and an easy-care tree. Position around three inches of mulch around the tree, avoiding contact with the trunk to help conserve moisture. The Oklahoma Redbud must be pruned in the fall to uphold a natural growth habit and to trim off any diseased, decaying or dead branches. While establishing the tree, the soil must always stay moist, but not saturated.

Keep a check on the health of your Oklahoma Redbud because they are highly prone to canker infections. The pruning area should be done a few inches below the affected area to remove as much fungal concentration as possible to improve the health of the tree.

Verdict
Whether you have a large or small yard, plant the Eastern Redbud or the Oklahoma Redbud, the tree will be nature’s gift you and your family are able to enjoy for years. Add uplights for visual interest to your yard’s landscaping at night. Redbuds are easy to maintain once established and impressive as a focal point of your landscaping.

Henry