young redbud trees

Question

I have 2 redbud trees just planted in my yard this spring. Tree #1 leafed out in spring, and has not grown at all since leafing out. Now the few leaves it has are dropping. Leaves are pale with yellow spots.

Tree # 2 has grown well, but some leaves have red rusty spots, some leaves have yellow spots. I have sprayed with Neem oil, and new leaves seem to be healthy.

These trees are planted in a new homesite, possible soil compaction, some clay mixed it with good soil.

Any comments would be helpful.

Answer 1

Failure to grow and leaf discoloration may be due to nutrient deficiencies. Soil and water management is the key. Fertilize with slow release organic fertilizer. Retain soil moisture and improve your soil with compost mulch.

Deep water every week during the hot season until the plant becomes established with a good root system.

If neem oil application helped, it may be suppressing a fungal disorder. But it's not a one time thing, it needs to be repeated every two weeks.