Dogwood Tree Care Planting

A dogwood tree planted in clay soil will eventually rot and die as it will hold water for too long.

Dogwood tree care planting. Like most dogwoods these trees enjoy a spot with rich moist soil in full sun to partial shade. Although reasonably hardy the dogwood can come with its problems. Disease and pests aphids and powdery mildew can be a problem but a fungicidal application and horticultural oils in spring can help prevent insects and diseases. A dogwood should be planted about two thirds the depth of its root ball.

Dig a hole about three times the size of the root ball on your sapling but keep the depth the same. When it comes to planting dogwood kousa trees it all begins with the soil. Powdery mildew an unsightly fungal infection doesn t usually kill the tree but probably weakens it until another pest comes along and delivers the final blow. Dogwoods also benefit from a little protection whether it be from other trees or structures.

The soil quality shouldn t be too sandy nor should it be heavy clay. Dogwoods perform best in partial sun although they can survive in both full shade and totally sunny locations. Plants should be grown between 6 and 20 feet apart depending on the expected size of the mature tree. For this reason where you plant it and how you care for it is crucial more details at the end of the page.

Start this fertilization process with two pounds of fertilizer per inch of trunk diameter. In some municipalities or cities dogwood trees may be protected. Not all dogwood trees will require fertilizer but if you notice pale or sparse leaves or short twig growth all of those are signs that fertilization is necessary. All dogwood trees should be planted at a depth of approximately two thirds the length of its root ball with the soil gently mounded around the sides with no soil over the top of the ball which should be slightly above ground level.

Plant dogwoods in the spring before tree growth starts and when the soil is moist. If your soil doesn t meet these conditions amend it with compost before planting your dogwood. Container grown trees can be transplanted anytime of the year provided they are watered regularly after planting. Be sure to avoid the trunk of the tree as you scatter the fertilizer over the ground.

Dogwoods need slightly acidic well drained soil that is rich in organic matter. You can test the ph of your soil easily with a kit purchased at the nursery or online. Dogwood trees need well drained humus soil that is ideally slightly acidic. Planting dogwood care bare root and burlap dogwood trees should be transplanted in late fall or early spring.