Will Eastern Redbud bloom in filtered shade?

Question

I planted 5 in kind of a shaded area in the back of my yard. It is kind of forrest - like, but still receives filtered sunrays. I planted them there about 2 1/2 years ago in the fall and they seem healthy, they just have not really bloomed that good yet. Anybody with any experience or knowledge if they really will bloom or not?

Answer 1

The redbuds should bloom fine in filtered shade. That is their natural habitat, but you see the best bloom at the edge of the woods, where they get about 1/2 day of sun, preferably morning sun. If yours are taking their time blooming, fertilize them with a high-phosphorus fertilizer (where the middle number is twice the first number). That will kick them into bloom for next spring. The fertilizer will probably not make that much difference for this approaching spring - I'm afraid bloom is already set for this year.

Answer 2

Yes, they should bloom well where you've placed them. Redbuds grow naturally as understory trees and are well suited for mixed shade. They have been planted quite extensively on the Iowa State University campus - often in very shady conditions. Each spring the floral effect is surprisingly beautiful. Keep them healthy and you will be rewarded shortly.

Answer 3

Cercis canadensis - Eastern Redbud, prefers Full sun to partial shade, so as long as it isn't too heavy a shade, they should do fine. If they've only had two growing seasons after planting, they are still fairly young trees. Basically, from a human perspective, they are still in their very early teens (12-13), and haven't reached full maturity, so their best years are yet to come. Be patient and wait until they grow up.

Answer 4

Should work out fine...