The flowering dogwood is one of our most beautiful ornamental trees. Dogwoods offer us a spectacular floral display in spring, light shade in summer, brilliant red fall foliage and berries, and interesting form in the winter landscape.
Success with flowering dogwoods depends on good cutural practices.
1. Begin by selecting a healthy nursery grown tree.
2. elect a proper planting site. Dogwoods prefer to be planted in a lightly shaded location. They will tolerate full sun, as long as they are supplied with ample moisture. In moderate shade, they will produce fewer flowers. Dogwoods must be planted in well-drained soil, in an area with good air circulation that allows the foliage to remain dry.
3. Take time to prepare your soil before planting. Dogwoods flourish in slightly acidic, cool, moist, well-drained loam with plenty of organic matter.
4. Mulch 3-4 inches deep, in a 3’ circle around the base of the tree to help retain moisture, and keep the roots cool. Do not allow the mulch to be in contact with the trunk of the tree.
5. Water slowly and deeply as needed, early in the day until the tree is well established and during periods of drought for the next several years. Do not wet the foliage.
6. Annual pruning is generally not needed. Prune after flowering to control size and shape, and to remove any dead or diseased wood.
7. Be careful with lawnmowers and trimmers. Do not cause physical injury to the base of the tree. Wrap the trunk with protective tree wrap for the first year after planting.
8. Fertilize only as needed based on soil analysis. Control dogwood pests.
Healthy, vigorous, well cared for trees are far more resistant to disease and insect infestation than trees under stress, you will be rewarded for your extra effort by year round beauty.