The common trumpet tree (Catalpa bignonioides) has impressive, large leaves and bright white flowers. Due to these characteristics, the deciduous deciduous tree, which originally comes from the warm and sunny regions of the southeastern USA, has a high ornamental value. The exotic is also relatively easy to care for if you follow the following rules.
How do you properly care for a trumpet tree?
The trumpet tree requires regular watering without waterlogging, organic fertilization for young trees, vigorous pruning in spring and good winter protection for trees under five years old. Avoid care mistakes to prevent pests and diseases.
How often do you have to water the trumpet tree?
The water supply for the trumpet tree can be a problem because, on the one hand, the plant needs to be watered regularly and evenly, especially in dry and hot months, but on the other hand, it cannot tolerate waterlogging at all and reacts quickly to excessive moisture with root rot.
When and with what should you fertilize the trumpet tree?
Fertilize the trumpet tree preferably with organic fertilizers such as compost (€12.00 on Amazon) and horn shavings, although container specimens are also satisfied with a good complete fertilizer. Young trees in particular need fertilization, older ones usually provide for themselves.
Can you cut the trumpet tree?
The trumpet tree is very tolerant of pruning and can also be cut back heavily.
In which season does pruning make sense?
The trumpet tree tolerates pruning best in early spring, ideally on a warm and dry day.
Why does the trumpet tree get yellow leaves?
Yellow leaves on the trumpet tree are usually an indication of care errors, often caused by too much water or excessive dryness in the hot summer months. Missing or inadequate fertilization can also be the cause.
Trumpet tree loses leaves – what can you do?
In most cases, wilted leaves also indicate an incorrect water or fertilizer supply.
Is the trumpet tree susceptible to certain pests or diseases?
Unfortunately, the trumpet tree is quite susceptible to the dangerous verticillium wilt, which is caused by a fungus found in the soil. Rapidly yellowing, wilting leaves on an otherwise he althy tree can indicate such a disease. Gray mold rot and mildew can also occur - especially if care is not taken correctly. The plant diseases mentioned can best be prevented through good, species-appropriate care.
Is the trumpet tree hardy?
Since the trumpet tree originally comes from a rather warm climate, it is only partially hardy in this country. Young trees under five years of age require good winter protection and should be well wrapped in gardening film or fleece or with reed mats.
Tip
When cutting the trumpet tree, you should wear gloves as all parts are slightly poisonous and can cause skin irritation.
