How to Plant, Grow, and Care for Dogwood Tree Easily

Dogwood trees (Cornus florida) dazzle with blooms in spring and lush summer foliage. Hardy and low-maintenance, but watch for disease and pests.

Dogwood Tree Plant Care

Light

Dogwood trees need 6+ hours of sunlight daily and can tolerate partial shade. In zones 5-9, proper light prevents poor growth and disease.

Soil

Dogwoods thrive in well-draining, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. Prepare soil by loosening it deeply and use mulch to retain moisture.

Water

Dogwoods need consistent moisture in spring but avoid overwatering. Water deeply, let soil dry slightly, and adjust for winter and drought conditions.

Temperature and Humidity

Dogwoods thrive in zones 5-9, with cool early spring and moderate late spring temps. They need moisture but tolerate drought.

Fertilizer

Dogwoods (Cornus florida) benefit from light, balanced fertilizer in early spring and mulch for moisture and temp control. Avoid over-fertilizing.

Pruning

Prune Dogwoods in early spring before buds appear. Remove dead or diseased branches, especially those with anthracnose. Maintain shape and mulch after pruning.

Overwintering

In winter, mulch Dogwood trees to insulate roots, retain moisture, and protect shallow roots from temperature extremes and drought.

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