How to Grow Pink Dogwood Trees

Pink dogwood tree blossoms in full bloom.

Pink dogwood trees are early spring bloomers and one of the most popular flowering trees.They are planted as ornamental specimen trees and can live up to 50 years when properly planted. Buy dogwood trees only from a reputable nursery that is certified disease-free. Pink dogwoods come with their rootballs wrapped in burlap or a container. The burlap can remain on the tree when it is planted. Pink dogwoods flourish best when planted in moist, fertile soil that is slightly acidic.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Pruning shears
• Peat moss
• Organic mulch

Instructions

1. Dig a hole three times the diameter of the rootball and deep enough for the rootball to sit 2 or 3 inches above the surface when it's planted.

2. Compact the soil in the bottom of the hole so the tree won't sink after it's planted.

3. Move the pink dogwood tree to the new planting hole, holding it by its burlapped rootball, not the trunk. Get help moving the tree if it's too heavy to handle alone.

4. Place the tree in the hole and check the height, making sure it isn't too low. Inspect it from all directions to ensure that it is properly positioned.

5. Amend the soil that was removed from the hole by mixing 1 part peat moss to 2 parts soil before backfilling.

6. Fill the hole about 75 percent of the way with the amended soil, tamping it down firmly by hand or with a shovel handle.

7. Cut back the burlap from the top part of the rootball. Push the burlap into the new soil and leave it there to decay.

8. Add more soil until the hole is filled. Water the tree until it is thoroughly soaked. Add more soil and tamp it down firmly with your feet if any holes or dips are present.

9. Place 2 to 3 inches of organic mulch on the soil around the tree. Don't let it touch the tree's trunk, as that could invite diseases.

Tips & Warnings

• Water the newly planted dogwood tree at least once or twice a week throughout summer and fall.

• Fertilize in February and June after the tree is established.

• Renew the organic mulch as needed on the soil around the tree.

• Watch for any sign of diseases or insect damage and treat appropriately as needed.

• Remove dead or damaged branches or suckers; dogwood trees need very little pruning otherwise.

References

• Gardening Know How: Tips For Caring For Dogwood Trees
• Tree Help: Flowering Dogwood Care a Step-by-Step Guide
• iVillage: Plant a Small Dogwood Tree
• Alabama Cooperative Extension System: Selection and Care of Dogwoods

Resources

• LifeTips: Flowering Trees Tips