Redbud Transplant Shock: Patience and Proper Watering

Container-grown clump redbud planted 3 weeks ago looks awful: leaves losing color, red tint, dropping. Owner suspects transplant shock and asks if it's salvageable.

Diagnosis: Classic Transplant Shock

Leaf loss and discoloration are normal as roots establish. The tree is reallocating resources.

What to Do

• Do nothing but water. Keep soil evenly moist (soaker hose is good).
• No fertilizer until new growth appears.
• Scratch test: Nick bark; green/white = alive, brown = dead.
• Wait until spring. The tree will reveal survival then.

Outlook

Living tissue can leaf out next spring. Many trees defoliate completely and recover. Patience is key.