Redbud Tree Needs Help

Question

We have a Redbud Tree that was planted by landscapers about 16 months ago. It has a few leaves scattered throughout the tree, but most are on the right side of the tree. It had a few blooms this year, but not too many. If I bend some of the smaller branches close to the bottom of the tree, they snap quite easily.

The tree is about 8 feet tall. We water it a minimum of twice a week, but when it’s warm, more frequently. Any idea what’s going with the tree and can we help it?

Answer 1

If you have branches that snap and break, these have died off. You can prune away any dead plant material at any time.
Redbud trees needs airy, well draining soil to grow in. Without proper drainage, the tree can develop root rot.
Check the soil ph. A Redbud Tree grows best with a ph above 7.5.
Check for signs of pests or disease.
Apply 3 to 4 inches of hardwood mulch to help with moisture and temperature regulation. Pull the mulch away from the trunk of the tree.
During drought periods you should water the tree deeply once a week.
If you feel the soil is not draining well, you can aerate the soil around the tree.
You can rent an aerator and use the machine starting from a distance of 2 feet from the trunk out to the drip line. If you need to adjust the ph of the soil, adding lime after aerating will help the soil absorb it.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/redbud/caring-for-redbud-trees.htm