The dogwood tree is a stunning and adaptable ornamental tree that thrives in American climates. The genus Cornus, also known as dogwood, has more than 50 species of plants, which range in size from deciduous temperate trees and evergreens to shrubs. One of the most well-liked varieties is the Flowering Dogwood, which is also the official tree of Virginia and is renowned for its breathtaking springtime blooms of white to light yellow blossoms. Some species offer distinct traits and looks, such as the California native Blackfruit Cornel. Whatever your taste, there’s a Dogwood out there to meet your requirements..
Water is one important factor to take into account when cultivating dogwoods, though. Although these trees are adaptable, they require watering in semi-arid to desert regions because they do not grow well there. Dogwoods can grow well along riverbanks or streams, but they suffer in locations that flood regularly and have permanently wet soil. Your dogwood tree will thrive and enhance the attractiveness of your landscape with regular irrigation.
Shortcuts for Raising Dogwood Trees
Here are some brief pointers to remember, but read the parts below for more in-depth information:
Light – Grow plants in a partly sunny spot with less afternoon direct sunlight. Perfect shadow comes from partially filtered sunlight coming through taller trees.
Soil: Plant in damp but not drenched soil that drains properly. Dogwoods may grow in a variety of soil types, but they favor slightly acidic loam.
Water: Because dogwoods have shallow roots, they can dry out rapidly. In most cases, water the tree at least twice a week; during dry spells, water it even more.
Pruning: To preserve the tree’s shape, prune sparingly in late winter and remove any dead or broken branches.
The Ideal Locations for Dogwood Planting
Dogwood Tree Q
Growing conditions are important to the Dogwood Tree. If there are big fluctuations in the amounts of nutrients and water, they might not adapt properly. Dogwoods have a strong scent as well, however it’s not very offensive. The greatest resemblance between a young child and the tree is that you will be amazed by the beauty, growth, and inspiration of your dogwood.
Taller shade trees shield the dogwoods from the more direct sun beams, allowing them to flourish in dappled shade zones. Look about your property for spots where the sun won’t reach your new Dogwood. Dogwoods like the dappled shade that quickly grows from shade trees like Tulip Poplar or Royal Empress. As an alternative, you might plant the dogwood where a neighboring structure provides shade. But exercise caution—buildings can reflect heat, rapidly drying out dogwood.
Water availability is the most important consideration while planting dogwoods. Water is necessary for your Dogwood, regardless of whether it is provided by an elaborate irrigation system, a natural flowing brook, heavy weekly rainfall, or a portable watering can. Dogwoods have shallow roots, and their root systems dry up fast, even under dappled shade. After giving the tree three feet of water, check the leaves for indications of excessive or insufficient wetting. The tree requires extra water if its leaves are brittle, spiky, or light green in color. The tree requires less water if its leaves are larger, drooping, or green-gray.
Growth Rate and Mature Height of a Blooming Dogwood Tree
The type of dogwood you plant will determine whether you get a small, robust bush or a 25-foot-tall tree. The tree grows at a medium rate; it averages 13 to 24 inches each year. Mature dogwood trees, like the Flowering Dogwood, can grow up to 40 feet tall with proper maintenance.
Diseases and Pests
Because of the current risk of fungal and pest infestations, purchasing a sapling from an arborist is a better option than relocating the Dogwood tree from its natural habitat. Discula destructiva is the fungus that causes dogwood anthracnose. Because the fungus prefers cooler, rainy weather, it may be advantageous to plant your dogwood in late spring when warm temperatures will kill it.
.A recent significant hazard to dogwoods is the dogwood powdery mildew. Fungicides like horticultural oil can be used to cure the mildew, which frequently results in a white-gray powdery coating on twisted leaves.
Dogwoods are delectable, so if deer are around where you live, use ‘Deer Away’ or anything similar to keep them away from your newly planted dogwood. Deer won’t be able to get to delicious bits like leaves and flower buds after your tree has grown to a proper height.