Northern Catalpa dead?

[Abrams]

I know is past years my Catalpa has been the last to "leaf out" but all my trees are read to go, even my oak and locus. Anyone else having problems with their Catalpa? I would be depressed if I lost this tree.

[Powerstroke]

Your Catalpa is most likely very stressed.

The Catalpa tree is not very hardy in MN because it doesn't like the frigid temps. The last 2-3 yrs we've had below zero temps with little or no snow cover creating a lot of cold and frost damage to tree roots. The Catalpa is notorious for dying suddenly after a hard winter.

If it is starting to sprout leaves than I would make sure its getting watered and maybe consider fertilizing it. It could fight through the stress.

[Abrams]

No leaves, I think it's dead. I planted in the fall of 05. It grew very well last summer, plenty of water and TLC. Awesome tree, I'll be sad if it's dead.

[Powerstroke]

If its that young than I would almost guarentee it couldn't handle the deep freeze without snow this year. It is very common in young catalpas. They actually do better in hot dry climates despite they are cleared for zone 4 which we are technically part of. Only problem is we had below zero weather this winter for a pretty good stretch.

On a side note, if you want to replace it with another catalpa you can, just make efforts to try and protect it from winter damage by mulching the root zone of the tree at least 6" deep without placing any mulch against the trunk. Mulch on the truck will encourage fungas and rotting and also give the rodents an easy access to eating the bark off the tree.

[Abrams]

I'll probably go in another direct like a Amur Maple, something different. Thanks!