6. In the future, fertilize the tree the same way in the spring, when the tree is in bloom. 34 Best Redbud trees images in 2013 Flowering trees. High nitrogen release rates on newly planted trees will burn roots and leaves on contact. Fertilize in early spring and when planting to give your tree a boost. Redbud trees have a short lifespan of about 25 years because of its susceptibility to canker, verticillium wilt, dieback, tree borers and root rot. If you do decide to amend the soil, though, you can do so simply by chopping the soil up with a rake or shovel to loosen it. Newly planted tree phase - these trees are still babies and should have only minimal applications of a quick release fertilizer and more of a type that releases slowly. Eastern Redbud. Redbud is an attractive, short-lived native tree that signals the start of spring with its striking floral displays. Fertilize with a balanced slow release fertilizer. This is a smaller type of redbud, growing to a maximum of 15 feet in height. There are many more types of redbud trees available, including the following. Type: deciduous tree Annual Growth Rate: 12 to 18 inches Light: Full sun to shade Moisture: Grows better in moist soil Flowers: Purplish-pink Fertilizer: TreeHelp Premium Fertilizer for Redbud . Redbud trees prefer loose, well-drained soil, but they are very sturdy and can thrive in the majority of soil types. Redbuds don't generally require pruning, but if needed, prune immediately after blooming has ceased to remove any dead, dying, crowded or crossed branches. Redbud trees thrive in the Denver climate due to their heat tolerance, love for full sun, and the ability to grow in many different types of soil. Redbud trees are also prized for their foliage, since many cultivars boast lime green, yellow, bronze, or burgundy foliage. Comments The Redbud tree is a relatively small tree with spreading branches and a small short trunk. Fertilize Redbud Tree again 6 to 8 weeks later to encourage denser foliage or faster growth of young trees. This tree is an attractive ornamental tree that is native to the eastern United States but will grow in USDA planting zones 4 through 8. Most redbud trees can grow in full sun or partial shade, though they typically suffer from leaf burn if kept in a full sun position in hot climates. Organic fertilizers, like manure, can also be used with good results. Stake type fertilizers can be used following the directions on the package. It is also resistant to mildew and can fertilize on its own. Forest Pansy is a popular redbud tree type and has won the Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. Western Redbud - Cercis occidentalis. The fertilizer can be spread in the zone around and just outside the root ball as this is where the new feeder roots will be. Sought after for its showy spring blooms, the Eastern Redbuds fuschia leaves turn yellow in the fall. It requires pruning when young to develop a good shape and strong structure. Mulch your Redbud tree with 1 to 2 inches of mulch extended at least a few inches past the root zone. 5. Regarding pruning, redbud is a tree that usually does not require much pruning if any at all. This type of fertilizer is safe for new plantings and gives your tree a great start. The redbud tree (Cercis canadensis) is a member of the bean family and is known as a Judas tree because according to some, Judas Iscariot used a relative of the redbud to hang himself. With any of the above techniques a higher nitrogen mix should be used; 21-7-14, 20-10-10, 16-10-9 or similar mixes. However, this type of redbud tree is the exception, as it can thrive in full sun without experiencing any leaf scorching, making it … You may want to fertilize your trees in spring with a wild slow release fertilizer and prune the dead branches and limbs in late fall in order to maintain the tree’s structural beauty and health. Choose a balanced, slow release fertilizer . Also called the Judas Tree or Love Tree, this variety of redbud is highly ornamental. Do not stomp on the ground as it can compact the soil and make it harder for your tree to get established. This small- to medium-sized tree puts out clusters of small pink or white flowers along its bare branches.