The hardy blue bell tree (bot. Paulownia tomentosa) is particularly striking because of its large leaves and impressive panicles of flowers. In order for it to thrive well, however, the roots are also important. These are very strong, but also sensitive.
The blue bell tree is sensitive to too much moisture
When planting, keep in mind that a mature bluebell tree needs a lot of space. It can grow up to 15 meters tall with an equally large crown. The root ball reaches about the same dimensions.
Like many other plants, the blue bell tree does not tolerate waterlogging. A high groundwater level can also damage the quite moisture-sensitive roots. In both cases, root rot can occur. The only thing that helps here is to generously cut off the affected root parts so that no infections, for example with fungal spores, can spread.
Can I prune the roots of my bluebell tree?
Regular pruning of the blue bell tree contributes to healthy and harmonious growth. However, the roots do not need this pruning. However, if you want to keep your paulownia in a bucket for a long time or even raise it as a bonsai, then cutting the roots is necessary or even essential. However, be careful when doing so.
Do the roots of my bluebell tree need winter protection?
Even if the blue bell tree is considered hardy, it is grateful for some protection from frost. On the one hand, this applies to the young shoots and buds, so that the tree can flower at all, but also to the root ball. You can easily protect this from freezing with a thick layer of straw or leaves.
If you have planted your blue bell tree in a bucket, protection against freezing of the roots is particularly important. It is best to wrap the entire bucket with an old blanket, jute bags or fleece so that the frost cannot reach the roots from below.
The essentials in brief:
- deep and powerful
- sometimes up to 4 m long
- can cause massive damage to house walls and walls
- do not tolerate waterlogging
- should be protected from frost
- only pruning carefully (when planting in containers)
tips
Do not plant a bluebell tree too close to your house wall or wall. Its strong roots could cause considerable damage to the masonry.