Cercis, commonly known as the Redbud tree, is a captivating addition to your garden. Its heart-shaped leaves and striking pink, white or purple flowers make it a real eye-catcher, enhancing your outdoor space with its unique and striking presence.
Planting Calendar
The best time to plant Cercis is in spring or autumn.
Prepare
Cercis is a beautiful deciduous rounded shaped tree that bears either white or rose-pink to magenta flowers in spring. Flowers appear before the leaves and often grow on the trunk. Heart shaped burgundy or lime green foliage makes this a showy tree. In autumn the leaves turns shades of red, yellow and gold putting on a spectacular show. A great tree for smaller garden where it provides shade and contrast.
Position
Plant Cercis in full sun to partial shade, with some shelter from wind.
Soil
When planted into the ground Cercis prefers a free-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. To improve the organic content in your soil, break up the soil and add Kings Compost and Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together well.
Plant
When planting into the ground, ensure the plants is well watered then, gently tap the plant out of its pot. Dig a hole twice the depth and width of the plant’s root ball. Mix Kings Compost into your existing soil at a 50/50 ratio, add Kings Sheep Pellets then mix together. Backfill the hole with this soil, so that when planted the top of the plant’s roots sit level with the surrounding ground. Firm the soil down gently and water in well with Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster. In heavier clay soils, where drainage is likely to be an issue, plant onto a raised mound and sprinkle Gypsum Clay Breaker into the bottom of the hole, this helps slowly condition the soil and help to break down the clay.
Care
Watering
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
Feeding
For strong healthy roots and plants, apply monthly applications of Aquaticus Organic Garden Booster, from spring through to the end of autumn, this encourages root growth and increases the microbial activity in the soil. Monthly applications of Kings Sheep Pellets will help with soil conditioning and plant health.
Mulching
Mulching around plants can help conserve moisture, regulate soil temperature, and reduce weed growth. Mulch around the base of the plants (making sure it is not in direct contact with the trunk or base of the plant) with Living Earth More than Mulch. Replenish mulch each spring.
Pruning
Tip prune in summer to help maintain its somewhat wayward growth
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Cercis?
Cercis, commonly known as Redbud, is a small deciduous tree known for its stunning pink or purple flowers that bloom in spring. It's a popular ornamental tree for gardens and landscapes.
How do I plant a Cercis tree?
Plant your Cercis in a spot with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball, place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and water thoroughly.
When is the best time to plant a Cercis?
The best time to plant a Cercis is in early spring or autumn when the weather is mild and the tree can establish roots before the hot summer or cold winter.
How much water does a Cercis need?
Watering is essential especially in the first year of planting to allow the roots to get well established. Water slowly, allowing the water to sink down into the roots, rather than just allowing it to run off the top of the surface of the soil, aiming to keep the soil moist during hot periods. Add Saturaid into the soil at planting time, as this helps to channel water down to the roots where it is needed the most.
What are common pests and diseases of Cercis?
Cercis trees are generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to canker, verticillium wilt, and leaf spot. Regular monitoring and maintaining tree health can prevent most issues.