The Judas trees (Cercis) are deciduous shrubs or trees that can reach very considerable sizes very quickly. Depending on the species, the trees, which come from North America, Asia (especially China) or southern Europe, bloom in early spring and often show attractive autumn colors in autumn. Although the Judas tree (which is often sold under the names heart or love tree) is actually quite easy to care for, the beautiful blossoms can still fail for various reasons.
Why doesn't the Judas tree bloom?
If a Judas tree does not bloom, there may be reasons such as unsuitable location, acidic soil, freezing back in winter, incorrect fertilization or waterlogging. Optimal conditions with sun, slightly alkaline soil and appropriate fertilization promote flowering.
Possible causes for lack of flowering
If your Judas tree doesn't want to bloom, there are various possible causes - in addition to an infestation by pests or pathogens. In addition to those listed here, it may also be that your specimen is too damp or even suffers from waterlogging. In this case, it is important to take immediate action before wilt can develop due to the high humidity.
Inappropriate location
An unsuitable location is often the cause of a lack of flowering. Judas trees - no matter what type - like sunny, warm and protected places, preferably with a southern orientation. Locations where they only get sun in the morning and/or evening or where the plants are quite drafty are not ideal - especially if the tree or shrub is to be kept as a solitary plant.
Acid soil
Soil conditions can also be a possible cause of the lack of flowers. Judas trees need a rather dry and calcareous, neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Slightly acidic to acidic soils, on the other hand, are completely unsuitable, even if some species or varieties of the Judas tree seem to tolerate them - but the affected specimens will still be able to get used to an alkaline pH value.
Freezing in winter / early spring
Contrary to the claims of some garden center employees, Judas trees are only partially hardy and can freeze back, especially during late frosts in early spring. If buds or even flowers have already formed, they will also freeze and the flower will fall out. Ergo, Judas trees need suitable frost protection and should not be planted in regions with harsh winters.
Incorrect fertilization
Judas trees are legumes that can produce nitrogen themselves with the help of bacteria. For this reason, fertilization with nitrogen-containing fertilizers (e.g. blue grain, but also compost and horn shavings) should be avoided. To promote beautiful flowering, you can - depending on the condition of the soil - fertilize with lime (€19.00 on Amazon), phosphorus and/or potash.
Tip
If you live in a region that is climatically unsuitable for Judas trees, you can rely on the no less pretty but more robust cake trees (Cercidiphyllum).