The Red Dogwood (Cornus Florida) is the perfect tree for smaller yards moderately growing to a mature height and width of 20-25 feet. Since it’s good for USDA growing zones 5-9, it has the ability to grow in just about any climate providing it gets the proper full to partial sun exposure required. It grows into a pyramidal shape with oval, bright green leaves that give way to beautiful fall colors of a rich red-brown. Birds love the small, bright red fruits that mature in late summer to early fall and have the ability to last until late in the year. During the blooming season, look for the dainty, red or pink flowers that are described as hermaphroditic, meaning “perfect flowers.”

Seasonal Information: With proper time & care, Dogwood trees can be planted at any time of the year. If your area is experiencing extreme heat, place your potted tree in a well shaded area, such as a garage, or plant it in a well shaded area of your lawn. Once mature, your tree will be better able to manage with temperatures of this kind. Typically, though, trees do not experience much growth during times of extreme temperature.

Location: Choose a planting site for your Dogwood that receives light or filtered shade. Dogwood trees are highly adaptable to many soil types. However, they thrive best in moist, fertile soils high in organic matter. The soil of your planting site should be well drained, with a 5.5 pH level.

Planting Instructions:
1) Dig a planting hole for your dogwood that is two times the diameter of your tree’s root ball and comprised of equal depth.
2) Remove your Dogwood from its container and ensure root moisture.
3) Place your tree in the planting hole, keeping the top of the root ball even with the ground.
4) Adjust your tree’s position and angle, then use the original soil to fill the planting hole.
5) Spread the roots out evenly and surround them with soil, tamping down lightly as you fill to avoid air pockets, which can dry out the roots of your tree.
6) Avoid firming the soil at this point, and instead water the area immediately to settle the soil.
7) Mulch around the base of the tree to conserve soil moisture. This will also keep competing growth (grass and weeds) from growing around the planting site.

Watering: Dogwood trees possess very shallow root systems that are susceptible to drying out in the absence of regular rainfall. It is best to water your tree once or twice a week. Be sure to water correctly. Light green leaves are a sign of overwatering, while drooping leaves signify both over watering and under watering. Watch for these and any other signs that your tree is getting too much or too little water.

Fertilization: Dogwood trees do not require much fertilization. If you choose to fertilize your tree, do so sparingly in April or May. Any general purpose fertilizer is suitable for this.

Weed Control: Do not permit weeds or grasses any closer than 2-3 feet from your Dogwood in the first year. Pull the weeds initially, and then utilize a growing mat or mulch. Insulate the roots 2-4 inches and replenish as needed. Do not spray Round Up on a young Dogwood, and ensure that wind doesn’t blow chemical drift onto your tree.

Pests & Disease: The best defense against any pest or disease issue is a healthy tree. Good soil, proper feeding & healthy watering habits are vital to the prosperity of your tree.

Deer: If you believe that deer may become an issue for your Dogwood, consider caging the tree(s). Although there is a whole host of deer deterrents available, nothing will guarantee protection like caging will.

Winter Dormancy: During late fall and winter, your Dogwood will enter its dormant state. When this occurs, your tree’s leaves will fall off and the stem will turn brown. Above ground, nothing will take place during this time, but the roots of your tree will continue to grow beneath the surface. This winter root development will accelerate the growth of your tree come spring.