flowering dogwood
Cornus florida 'Appalachian Spring'
Overview
The flowering dogwood (Cornus florida 'Appalachian Spring') is an amazing plant species native to the eastern United States. It is best known for its spring beauty, with large, white flower bracts that emerge in late March and April. Its deep green glossy leaves turn a vibrant red-orange in autumn. For much of the year the bark is smooth and gray but as it matures, it turns a mottled texture of bark that is both unique and attractive. Its low canopy is ideal for shade gardens and offers shelter to wildlife such as rabbits, birds, and butterflies. Its small size also makes it suitable for growing in containers. It is truly a stunning plant, and a must-have for any garden.
Care Guide
Watering
Water Flowering Dogwood trees every 5-7 days during the growing season. Early morning is the optimal time to water, as this prevents possible fungal problems that can occur when the top of the soil remains wet for too long. However, during periods of extreme heat and drought, you may need to water every 2-3 days. To ensure your plant's health, water thoroughly until the soil is soaked and some of the water has run off into the surrounding area. It is best to use a slow and steady stream of water rather than a strong, powerful blast.
Light
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida 'Appalachian Spring') does best when planted in full sun to part shade areas. It should receive at least 4 hours of direct sunlight each day, either morning or afternoon. Partial shade is ideal for the flowering dogwood, as too much full sun could lead to leaf scorch. Flowering dogwood can also tolerate a bit of light shade, but it needs some sun to reach its full potential. Picking the right spot for this species is important, as it will ensure that your tree gets the right amount of sun for the best growth and flowering.
Soil
Acidic, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6-6.
Pruning
Flowering Dogwood trees should be pruned in late winter or early spring, preferably once the danger of frost has passed. Pruning should be kept to a minimum; only necessary dead or weak branches should be removed. When pruning flowering Dogwoods, take care to avoid cutting into healthy wood; instead, make pruning cuts just beyond the branch collar. Also, cut away a small portion of the center of the crown in order to allow light to reach its interior. This will encourage healthy growth and boost flowering. Finally, remove any suckers originating from the base of the tree that are vying for dominance.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Layering Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Tissue Culture, Seed Propagation
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Anthracnose, Canker, sap rot, Diptera - true flies, Fungal leaf spot, Mildew, Nematodes, Root rot, Scale insects, Stem borer insects, Thrips, Deer resistant .
Related plants
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