Knowledgebase

Redbud dying #329174

Asked June 06, 2016, 12:11 AM EDT

Hello. This year my two-stemmed redbud redbud bloomed beautifully, then the leaves were unusually slow to emerge. Those on half the tree wilted before they were fully out; the others emerged, but remain very small and tender (see photo). Thoughts? I assume I should cut back the dead stem (about 2 in. DBH); is it worth waiting to see whether the second stem recovers? Or, if the tree is diseased, better to remove the whole thing? If so, curious whether I need to wait to plant something else, and if I dare try another redbud. (It was the MN hardy variety, and has been lovely for 5+ years.) For a diagnosis, is there anything specific I should be looking for? Thank you for anything you can offer!

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Three major diseases affect redbuds (Botryosaphaeria canker, verticillium wilt and leaf anthracnose). Botryosaphaeria canker has open wounds or sunken black spots on the twigs. Verticillium wilt disease causes sections of the tree leaves to appear wilted. It does appear your tree is stressed and declining. If you want to fully identify the problem you could ask for an arborist consult from a local tree company.
Amy J. Extension Master Gardener - HC Replied June 07, 2016, 12:16 AM EDT

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