Dogwoods have been around for centuries, delighting gardeners everywhere with their delightful hues and awe-inspiring shapes. So what's so special about dogwoods? Let's explore this timeless tree in greater detail, discovering all there is to know about its appearance, benefits, care instructions; you name it!
History, Facts, Information
The Dogwood Tree is an iconic part of the North American landscape. Its history as a beloved feature in gardens, yards, and parks dates back centuries. It is believed that the Dogwood Tree was brought to North America from its native home in Europe sometime in the 1700s, but records of its arrival can’t be accurately traced.
Tree Varieties
Flowering
The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida) is the state tree of Virginia, Missouri, and North Carolina. It is a small deciduous tree that typically grows to 15-30 feet tall with a spread of 15-25 feet. The leaves are oval-shaped and 3-6 inches long. The flowers are small and white, and the fruit is a red drupe.
Kousa
The kousa dogwood (Cornus kousa) is native to Asia but has been introduced to North America. It is similar in appearance to the flowering dogwood, but it typically grows to 20-40 feet tall with a spread of 20-30 feet. The leaves are oval-shaped and 4-8 inches long.
Pacific
Growing Conditions
Light & Temperature
These trees do best when they receive enough sunlight and warmth; typically, they need at least 8 hours of direct sunlight each day. Therefore, if planting dogwoods in your yard, be sure to place them in an area that receives plenty of sun.
Soil
Dogwood trees thrive in many types of soil, but for optimal growth, a soil with a neutral pH level is ideal. The best soils for Dogwoods are loamy and include enough organic matter to help the tree hold moisture and nutrients.
Water
Dogwood trees need 2-3 inch depths of water every week during their first year in the ground, and a consistent 1-2 inches weekly during their second year. However, it's important to not over or under water this tree; by supplying too much water or too little, you risk damaging the roots and inhibiting growth.
Nutrients & Fertilizer
To ensure your Dogwood tree has optimal growing conditions, adequate nutrients and fertilizer are important. A comprehensive blend of nutrients should contain all the necessary primary, secondary and micronutrients.
How To Plant & Grow
Planting a dogwood tree can be an easy and enjoyable process if done correctly. Follow these steps to plant and begin growing your very own Dogwood Tree:
- Choose a location. Dogwoods do best in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Avoid planting dogwoods in low-lying areas that stay wet for long periods of time.
- Prepare the planting site. Use a shovel or tiller to loosen the soil in the planting area and remove any weeds or other debris.
- Dig a hole. The hole should be twice as wide as the tree’s root ball and just deep enough so that the tree’s roots are covered with soil.
- Place the tree in the hole. Carefully remove the tree from its container or burlap wrapping and place it in the hole so that the roots are spread out evenly.
- Backfill the hole with soil. Use the removed soil to fill in around the tree, gently tamping it down as you go. Water the tree deeply to settle the soil and help promote root growth.
Care & Maintenance
Caring for a dogwood tree is not difficult, but it does require knowledge of the best practices and maintenance. Regular pruning is essential in maintaining the health and size of the tree. This can be done during summer to help assure the shape and structure of the tree.
Proper irrigation is also necessary as this species tends to be prone to drought stress; both overwatering and underwatering can cause damage to the root system, so it's important to find a balance.
Pests & Disease
Pests
Though these trees bring an abundance of charm to the garden, they can sometimes be vulnerable to certain pests. Certain species of beetles, caterpillars, mites, and aphids all pose a threat to Dogwood tree growth and health.
Disease
The Dogwood Tree is susceptible to a few common diseases. Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spotting and dieback of the shoots and twigs, which can eventually kill the tree if left unchecked. Canker can occur at any time of the year, resulting in lesions that girdle branches and inhibits transport of sap, leading to decreased vigor and potentially death.
Conclusion
To keep the tree healthy and thriving, fertilize annually by adding organic material like compost around the root structure to nourish them while they grow. All in all, with adequate care and attention, the Dogwood Tree will add beauty to your landscape for years to come!