Summerburst™ Golden Rain Tree

Where to Plant

• Sunlight: This variety requires at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily to maintain its signature golden color. While it can tolerate partial shade, the foliage often turns a muddy green and the yellow flower panicles will be much less vibrant.
• Soil: It thrives in well drained soil but is famously adaptable to urban conditions. If you have heavy clay, plant it in a slight mound to keep the roots from sitting in water, or incorporate organic compost to improve drainage in sandy spots.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, water deeply twice a week to ensure the root system anchors properly. Once mature, this tree is remarkably drought tolerant and can handle dry spells without dropping leaves. If you skip watering during an extended heatwave, you may notice smaller seed pods or early leaf drop as the tree tries to conserve energy.

Pruning Tips

Pruning should be done in late winter while the tree is still dormant because it blooms on new wood produced in the spring. Think of it like a structural tune up where you remove crossing branches or narrow "V" shaped crotches to prevent future limb breakage. Pruning at this time ensures you don't cut off the developing flower buds that provide that spectacular midsummer show.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as the buds begin to swell. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer because this encourages tender new growth that won't have time to harden off before the first frost. This late season "soft" growth is very susceptible to winter kill and can weaken the overall structure of the tree.