Dogwood Trees: Add Vibrant Beauty to Your Landscape

Popular Types of Dogwood Trees

There are several popular types of dogwood trees, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Here are some of the most popular dogwood species and cultivars:

Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida): This native North American tree is known for its stunning white or pink flowers in spring, followed by bright red berries in fall. It typically grows to 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) tall and has beautiful red or purple fall foliage. The flowering dogwood is the state tree of Missouri and Virginia.

Kousa Dogwood (Cornus kousa): Also known as the Korean or Chinese dogwood, this species has attractive white or pink bracts that resemble flowers, which bloom slightly later than the flowering dogwood. It grows to 15-30 feet (4.5-9 meters) tall and has exfoliating bark and red berries in the fall.

Pacific Dogwood (Cornus nuttallii): Native to the western United States, this dogwood species features large, showy white flowers in spring, followed by bright red berries. It can grow up to 40 feet (12 meters) tall and has a similar appearance to the flowering dogwood.

Cornelian Cherry Dogwood (Cornus mas): This small tree or large shrub is native to Europe and Asia and is known for its clusters of small, bright yellow flowers in early spring, followed by red, cherry-like fruit. It typically grows 15-25 feet (4-5-7.5 meters) tall and has an attractive, exfoliating bark.

Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia): This North American native has a unique horizontal branching pattern, giving it a distinct, layered appearance. It features clusters of small, fragrant white flowers in late spring, followed by bluish-black berries. It grows 15-25 feet (4-5-7.5 meters) tall and has a rounded, spreading habit.

Gray Dogwood (Cornus racemosa): This deciduous shrub or small tree is native to North America and features clusters of small, white flowers in spring, followed by white berries in the fall. It typically grows 10-15 feet (3-4.5 meters) tall and has a rounded, spreading habit.

Giant Dogwood (Cornus controversa): Also known as the Wedding Cake Tree, this large, deciduous tree is native to East Asia and features clusters of small, white flowers in spring, followed by bluish-black berries. It can grow up to 50 feet (15 meters) tall and has a tiered, horizontal branching pattern.

These popular types of dogwood trees offer a wide range of choices for different landscape settings and design preferences. Consider the mature size, growth habit, and other features when selecting the right dogwood tree for your garden or landscape.

When to Plant a Dogwood Tree?

The best time to plant a dogwood tree is in the fall or early spring when the tree is dormant. Planting in the fall allows the tree to establish its root system before winter while planting in early spring gives it time to grow and establish roots before the heat of summer. In general, it’s best to plant when the soil is moist, and the temperatures are cool to moderate.

Where to Plant a Dogwood Tree?

Choose a location with the following conditions:

Sunlight: Dogwood trees prefer partial shade, especially in warmer climates. Plant them where they can receive dappled sunlight or morning sun with afternoon shade. In cooler climates, they can tolerate more sunlight. Avoid areas with intense afternoon sun, which can scorch the leaves and stress the tree.

Soil: Dogwoods grow best in well-draining, fertile, and slightly acidic soil with a pH between 5.5 and 6.0. They are sensitive to waterlogged conditions, so avoid planting in areas prone to standing water.

Space: Ensure there is enough space for the tree to grow to its mature size without interference from other plants, structures, or power lines. Dogwoods are typically small to medium-sized trees, but the mature size will depend on the specific species.

By carefully considering where to plant your dogwood tree in the landscape, you can ensure it grows to its full potential and enhances the beauty of your outdoor space.

How to Plant a Dogwood Tree?

Dig a hole: The hole should be twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. This allows for proper root growth and establishment.

Prepare the roots: If your dogwood tree is container-grown, carefully remove it from the container and gently loosen the roots. If the tree is balled and burlapped, remove the burlap and any wire or twine around the root ball.

Position the tree: Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. If necessary, adjust the depth of the hole to achieve the correct planting depth.

Backfill the hole: Fill the hole halfway with the excavated soil, and then water it to help settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Once the water has been absorbed, finish backfilling the hole.

Water and mulch: Water the tree thoroughly after planting to help establish the roots. Apply a 2-4 inch (5-10 cm) layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds.

Stake if necessary: If your dogwood tree is tall and slender or if your location is particularly windy, you may need to stake the tree for support during its first year or two. Be sure to use a flexible tie to avoid damaging the trunk.

Garden Design with a Dogwood Tree

A dogwood tree can be a stunning focal point or an attractive addition to your garden design. When incorporating a dogwood tree into your landscape, consider the following tips:

Choose the right species: There are several species and cultivars of dogwood trees, each with different characteristics such as size, color, and growth habits. Some popular choices include the native North American flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), the kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa), and the Pacific dogwood (Cornus nuttallii).

Create layers: Dogwood trees can be used as understory trees, which means they grow well beneath taller trees. Planting a dogwood tree under larger trees can create an appealing layered look in your garden.

Highlight seasonal interest: Dogwoods are known for their stunning spring blooms, often followed by vibrant red or purple foliage in the fall. Plan your garden design so that the dogwood’s seasonal beauty stands out and complements other plants.

Combine with companion plants: Plant your dogwood tree alongside shade-loving plants like hostas, ferns, astilbes, or hydrangeas. This will create a visually interesting and diverse garden space. Be mindful of the plants’ growth habits and spacing needs to ensure all plants thrive.

Use as a focal point: A dogwood tree can serve as a striking focal point in a garden or yard, especially when it’s in bloom. Place it in a location where it can be easily viewed and appreciated.

Plant in groups or clusters: Planting several dogwood trees together can create a stunning visual impact, especially during their blooming season. Consider planting them in a naturalized pattern or along a property line for privacy and visual interest.

Wildlife-friendly garden: Dogwood trees produce berries that attract birds and other wildlife. By incorporating a dogwood tree into your garden design, you can create a habitat that supports local fauna.

Remember to consider the mature size of the tree when planning your garden design, and allow for adequate space for the tree to grow and thrive. With thoughtful planning, a dogwood tree can become a beautiful and valuable addition to your landscape.

How to Care for a Dogwood Tree?

Caring for a dogwood tree involves several steps to ensure its health and longevity. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Watering: Young dogwood trees need consistent watering, especially during the first year. Water deeply once or twice a week, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering. Established dogwoods are more drought-tolerant but still benefit from regular watering during dry spells.

Mulching: Apply a 2-4 inch (5-10 cm) layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the tree. This helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot and pests.

Fertilizing: Dogwoods don’t usually require much fertilization. However, if your soil is poor or your tree appears to be struggling, you can apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10) in early spring. Avoid over-fertilizing, as it can lead to excessive growth and weak branches.

Pruning: Prune dogwood trees in late winter or early spring when they are dormant. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and thin out crowded branches to improve air circulation. Avoid excessive pruning, as it can stress the tree and make it more susceptible to disease.

Winter protection: In colder climates, protect young dogwood trees from winter damage by wrapping the trunk with a tree guard or burlap. This can help prevent sunscald, frost cracks, and damage from browsing animals.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your dogwood tree stays healthy and thrives in your landscape for years to come.

How to Propagate

Propagating a dogwood tree can be done through various methods, including seeds, cuttings, and layering. Here’s a brief overview of each method:

Seeds

• Collect seeds from ripe berries in the fall.
• Remove the pulp surrounding the seeds by soaking them in water and rubbing them against a fine mesh sieve.
• Allow the seeds to dry completely.
• Stratify the seeds by placing them in a sealed plastic bag with moistened peat moss or vermiculite and refrigerating them for 3-4 months. This process mimics the natural winter dormancy period and helps increase germination rates.
• After stratification, sow the seeds in a seed tray or pots filled with a well-draining potting mix. Lightly cover the seeds with soil.
• Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy, and place the tray in a bright location but not in direct sunlight.
• Seeds may take several weeks to germinate. Once seedlings have a few sets of true leaves, transplant them into individual pots.
• Gradually acclimate the young plants to outdoor conditions before planting them in their permanent location.

Cuttings

• The best time to take cuttings is in early summer when the current year’s growth begins to harden slightly (semi-hardwood cuttings).
• Select a healthy branch and cut a 4-6 inch piece just below a leaf node.
• Remove the leaves from the bottom half of the cutting, and dip the cut end in rooting hormone to improve the chances of successful root formation.
• Plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, ensuring the bottom half is buried in the soil.
• Keep the cutting moist and in a humid environment, such as inside a plastic bag or a propagation box.
• Place the cutting in a bright location but out of direct sunlight.
• Rooting may take several weeks or even a few months. Once roots have formed, transplant the cutting into a larger container and eventually into its permanent location.

Layering

• Choose a flexible, healthy branch close to the ground.
• Make a shallow upward cut on the underside of the branch, about halfway through the stem.
• Apply rooting hormone to the cut.
• Bend the branch down so the cut portion touches the soil, and secure it with a U-shaped stake or a heavy rock.
• Cover the cut area with soil, leaving the branch tip exposed.
• Keep the area moist, and the branch should form roots within a few months.
• Once roots have developed, sever the new plant from the parent tree and transplant it to a new location.

Choose the propagation method that best suits your preferences and resources. With some patience and care, you can successfully propagate a dogwood tree and add more beauty to your landscape.

Pests and Diseases

Dogwood trees can be affected by several pests and diseases. While they are generally quite resilient, it’s important to monitor the health of your tree and address any issues promptly. Some common pests and diseases affecting dogwood trees include:

Dogwood Anthracnose: This fungal disease, caused by Discula destructiva, affects the leaves, twigs, and branches of the tree. Symptoms include tan or purple-bordered leaf spots, twig dieback, and cankers on the trunk. To control anthracnose, prune and dispose of infected branches, maintain good air circulation, and apply fungicides when necessary.

Spot Anthracnose: Spot Anthracnose, primarily affecting flowering dogwood trees, is a fungal disease caused by Elsinoë corni. Symptoms include small, purplish spots on leaves and blossoms. The disease is more prevalent in wet spring conditions.

Powdery Mildew: This fungal infection appears as a white or gray powdery substance on the leaves and stems. It can cause leaf distortion, yellowing, and premature leaf drop. To manage powdery mildew, ensure proper air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and apply fungicides when necessary.

Dogwood Borer: This insect pest, Synanthedon scitula, burrows into the trunk and branches, causing damage that can weaken or kill the tree. Signs of infestation include sawdust-like frass around entry holes and branch dieback. To control borers, maintain the overall health of the tree, apply a protective insecticide barrier, and remove and destroy infested branches.

Dogwood Club Gall Midge: This tiny fly, Resseliella clavula, lays eggs on the growing tips of dogwood trees, causing the formation of spindle-shaped galls. Prune and destroy affected branches to control the infestation.

Leaf Spot Diseases: Various fungi can cause leaf spots on dogwood trees, leading to discolored or dead areas on the leaves. Improve air circulation, avoid overhead watering, and remove fallen leaves to reduce the spread of fungal spores.

Dogwood Twig Borer: Oberea tripunctata is a beetle that can cause dieback and girdling of branches. Prune and destroy affected branches, and maintain tree health to reduce susceptibility.

Scale Insects: Scale insects can infest dogwood trees, leading to yellowing leaves, branch dieback, and a decline in overall tree health. Control scales with horticultural oil sprays, insecticides, or by releasing natural predators like ladybugs.

Crown Canker: This disease, caused by the fungus Phytophthora, affects the base of the trunk and causes cankers, which can lead to girdling and tree death. Avoid wounding the tree, ensure proper drainage, and apply fungicides if needed.

To prevent or mitigate these issues, maintain the overall health of your dogwood tree through proper planting, watering, mulching, and pruning practices. Additionally, monitor your tree regularly for signs of pests or diseases, and take prompt action when necessary.

Frequently Asked Questions

How fast do dogwood trees grow?

Dogwood trees generally have a slow to moderate growth rate, depending on the species and environmental conditions. On average, they grow about 1 to 2 feet (30-60 cm) per year. Some species may grow slightly faster, but overall, dogwoods are not considered fast-growing trees.

When do dogwood trees bloom?

Dogwood trees typically bloom in the spring, from March to May, depending on the species and local climate. The exact timing of blooming can vary based on geographic location and weather conditions.

When to prune dogwood trees?

The best time to prune dogwood trees is in late fall or winter when the tree is dormant. Pruning during dormancy helps minimize stress on the tree and reduces the risk of diseases and pests entering through pruning wounds. Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other.

Do deer eat dogwood trees?

Deer may browse on dogwood trees, particularly young trees, and new growth. They are attracted to the leaves, buds, and tender branches. If deer are a problem in your area, consider using physical barriers, such as fencing or tree guards, to protect your dogwood tree. You can also try using deer-repellent sprays or planting deer-resistant plants around the dogwood to deter browsing.

How long do dogwood trees live?

Dogwood trees can live for several decades, with an average lifespan of around 30 to 50 years. Some dogwood species may live longer under optimal conditions. Proper care, including regular watering, well-draining soil, proper pruning, and protection from pests and diseases, can help extend the life of your dogwood tree.

Do dogwood trees smell bad?

Dogwood trees are not typically known for having a strong or unpleasant smell. In fact, some dogwood species, such as the flowering dogwood (Cornus florida), are appreciated for their subtle, pleasant fragrance. The scent is generally mild and may not be noticeable unless you are close to the tree during its blooming period.