Eastern Redbud tree - Ask Extension
I have a three year-old eastern redbud tree. It has been thriving until the spring. I have about 80% leaves, but there are dead seedlings or helicopte...
Knowledgebase
Eastern Redbud tree #868783
Asked May 16, 2024, 6:08 PM EDT
I have a three year-old eastern redbud tree. It has been thriving until the spring. I have about 80% leaves, but there are dead seedlings or helicopters. If you will that have not fallen off the tree. Is it dying? If so, can I save it?
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
It sounds like your eastern redbud tree is experiencing some stress, but it may not necessarily be dying. The presence of dead seed pods (often referred to as “helicopters”) that have not fallen off could be a sign of a few different issues, such as environmental stress or a potential disease.
Here are some steps you can take to help your tree:
Watering: Ensure the tree is receiving regular watering, especially if there has been a dry spell. Eastern redbuds do not tolerate drought well.
Pruning: Carefully prune out any dead branches and remove the dead seed pods to encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
Protection: Since the branches of eastern redbuds can be brittle, protect the tree from strong winds and other physical disturbances.
Soil Conditions: Make sure the soil is well-drained and the tree is not sitting in waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization: While not always necessary, a balanced fertilizer can help provide nutrients if the soil is lacking.
Eastern redbuds are generally adaptable and resilient. They can tolerate full sun to part shade and a range of soil conditions, including moderately fertile clay or sandy soil. However, they do not tolerate heat or drought well, which can stress the tree.
If the problem persists, consider reaching out to a professional (certified) arborist for a more detailed assessment. They can provide specific advice based on the local environment and potential pests or diseases that may be affecting trees in your area. To find a certified arborist in your Zip Code go to this link:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
You can find more detailed care information from educational sites like the Penn State Extension or the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. More information at these links:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cercis-canadensis/
https://extension.psu.edu/eastern-redbud-a-superb-tree-for-almost-any-landscape
I hope this helps!
It sounds like your eastern redbud tree is experiencing some stress, but it may not necessarily be dying. The presence of dead seed pods (often referred to as “helicopters”) that have not fallen off could be a sign of a few different issues, such as environmental stress or a potential disease.
Here are some steps you can take to help your tree:
Watering: Ensure the tree is receiving regular watering, especially if there has been a dry spell. Eastern redbuds do not tolerate drought well.
Pruning: Carefully prune out any dead branches and remove the dead seed pods to encourage new growth and improve air circulation.
Protection: Since the branches of eastern redbuds can be brittle, protect the tree from strong winds and other physical disturbances.
Soil Conditions: Make sure the soil is well-drained and the tree is not sitting in waterlogged soil, which can cause root rot.
Fertilization: While not always necessary, a balanced fertilizer can help provide nutrients if the soil is lacking.
Eastern redbuds are generally adaptable and resilient. They can tolerate full sun to part shade and a range of soil conditions, including moderately fertile clay or sandy soil. However, they do not tolerate heat or drought well, which can stress the tree.
If the problem persists, consider reaching out to a professional (certified) arborist for a more detailed assessment. They can provide specific advice based on the local environment and potential pests or diseases that may be affecting trees in your area. To find a certified arborist in your Zip Code go to this link:
https://www.treesaregood.org/findanarborist/arboristsearch
You can find more detailed care information from educational sites like the Penn State Extension or the North Carolina Extension Gardener Plant Toolbox. More information at these links:
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cercis-canadensis/
https://extension.psu.edu/eastern-redbud-a-superb-tree-for-almost-any-landscape
I hope this helps!
