Knowledgebase

Redbud not thriving #930269

Asked May 01, 2026, 11:30 AM EDT

Hi - In recent years my eastern redbud, bred for a Minnesota climate, is failing to thrive as it formerly had. The tree is about 25 years old and each year, has a few newly dead branches. So two questions:

-Are redbuds not recommended anymore for zone 4, clay soil, in MN?

-If I replace the tree with something more robust, what can you recommend? I'd like a flowering tree, 20 or less in height ideally and spread no more than 20 feet ideally. 

Thanks!

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response



https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/redbud/caring-for-redbud-trees.htm
Unfortunately, it is a short lived tree, something that is common for small fast growing trees. Mulching under it and giving it adequate water will help preserve it. The life expectancy average is an average meaning some trees don’t live as long others longer. Water will be very important to the trees health if we have another very hot summer. 
Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer Replied May 02, 2026, 6:45 PM EDT
Thanks Evelyn!

From: ask=<personal data hidden> on behalf of Ask Extension
Sent: Saturday, May 2, 2026 5:45 PM
To: sharon-coombs
Subject: Re: Redbud not thriving (#0200184)
 
The Question Asker Replied May 03, 2026, 8:50 AM EDT
You are welcome, hope it makes it. 
Here is a fun article, the flowers are edible.
https://www.ateaspoon.com/food-facts/2022/4/edible-eastern-redbuds
Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer Replied May 03, 2026, 7:04 PM EDT
Thanks so much for this fun info. I'll be eating some redbud flowers. The bluejays love the seed pods.
From: ask=<personal data hidden> on behalf of Ask Extension
Sent: Sunday, May 3, 2026 6:04 PM
To: sharon-coombs
Subject: Re: Redbud not thriving (#0200184)
 
The Question Asker Replied May 03, 2026, 11:10 PM EDT
I will watch for blue jays, thanks.
Evelyn Locke, MN Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor, Volunteer Replied May 04, 2026, 7:20 AM EDT

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