Catalpa tree slow to get leaves

(Question)

Hi,

I had this catalpa tree planted by Sheridan Nurseries last fall. It is growing leaves but just quite sparsely. It has a two year warranty and was planter by Sheridan. Should I return it? Or would I have more success waiting it out for another year?

(Answer)

Your tree is probably the Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) which is known to be late to leaf out so I advise waiting and assess it’s health over the full growing season.  Note that the catalpa is also one of the first to shed it’s leaves in the fall so don’t be concerned when this happens.

I would also fertilize the tree with a 30-10-10 tree and evergreen fertilizer which is available from your local garden centre. Make sure to follow directions on the package.