Cherokee Chief Dogwood for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by John Haryasz | Horticulture Writer and Landscape Designer – last update on October 7, 2022

Planting instructions

This tree survives in USDA hardiness zones 5-9. Those living in the cooler parts of that range can plant this tree in either full sunlight or partial shade. Those living farther south may need to avoid full sun. The best soil for this plant is well-draining and somewhat acidic. To plant a Cherokee chief dogwood, choose an area that has about 15-20 feet of space in all directions into which this plant can spread its canopy. Then, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball is tall and about twice as wide.

Watering and nutrients

A newly planted Cherokee chief dogwood should receive water about twice per week during the first growing season to aid establishment. After the first growing season, this tree will need water about once per week during the hottest parts of spring and summer. During other times of the year, the water needs for this plant will remain low. Feed this plant twice per year — once in early spring and once in late spring — using a fertilizer that is balanced or has a higher ratio of nitrogen.

Pollination

One odd aspect about dogwoods is that although they have bisexual flowers, which typically means self-pollination is possible, these plants are typically self-incompatible, meaning that they need a companion plant in order to produce fruits. As such, if you want to enjoy the fruits of your Cherokee chief dogwood, you’ll need to plant an additional dogwood tree nearby. Typically, dogwoods rely on larger insects, including bumblebees, to carry their pollen. However, it can be possible for these trees to spread their pollen via the wind as well.

Pruning

It can be somewhat difficult to find a suitable time to prune a dogwood. On the one hand, these plants produce sap during the active growing period, and pruning during that time can cause the sap to bleed. On the other hand, dogwoods set their flower buds on old wood, which means pruning during winter and early spring risks removing some of the blooms. With that said, the dormant period is the better time to perform pruning. Fortunately, pruning doesn’t need to be extensive as these plants tend to take on a pleasing form on their own.

Pests, diseases and animals

Unfortunately, there are several diseases that can threaten your Cherokee chief dogwood. Many of those diseases are fungal and can be quite damaging to your tree’s health. Some of the most common diseases for this plant and its relatives are powdery mildew and leaf anthracnose, which results in significant leaf discoloration. Sadly, pests can also be an issue for dogwoods. Along with other common garden pests, borers are particularly likely to infest a Cherokee chief dogwood.

Achieving maximum results

Pruning your Cherokee chief dogwood at the wrong time of year is one of the easiest ways to harm it. For instance, if you prune in early spring, not only will this tree begin to bleed sap, but it may also become more vulnerable to pests and diseases. Aim to time your pruning for late fall and early winter to avoid these issues. When pruning, be incredibly mindful of the flower buds. Removing too many of these buds will leave your plant looking relatively bare when the bloom time arrives.

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