Pink Flowering Dogwood Trees for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide

Planting and Care

by Jo Cosgrove | Ecological Gardener, Horticulturist, and Educator – last update on December 10, 2021

Planting instructions

The pink flowering dogwood tree enjoys partial shade, but it requires at least five to six hours of sunlight per day. The species thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Once you have determined your planting location, dig a hole as deep as the tree’s root ball and twice as wide. Place the tree in the hole and backfill it with dirt. Tamp down the soil lightly and water thoroughly, adding more soil if settling occurs. A two to three inch layer of mulch helps retain moisture as the plant establishes itself.

Watering and nutrients

Water your newly planted dogwoods every few days, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Established trees should be watered once per week. Do not allow the soil to completely dry out between waterings or your trees may develop problems with discolored foliage and bloom production. Fertilize your dogwood trees between March and June, before the heat of summer comes. Apply a light layer of compost or all-purpose fertilizer, gently working it into the soil around your trees.

Pollination

The pink flowering dogwood relies on many different insects and animals for pollination. The inside of the flower is a cluster of numerous tiny flowers that contain pollen. The flowers on the ‘rubra’ cultivar bloom April through May, opening up their buds to attract bees, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other pollinators. Once pollinated, the pink flowering dogwood tree produces tiny, dark, red berries that provide a source of food for birds and animals. The flowering dogwood is monoecious, as it has both male and female flowers and will always produce fruit.

Pruning

Prune when the tree is dormant, during late autumn or winter. Remove any dead, dying, or diseased branches and dispose of infected branches away from other dogwood trees. When pruning, sterilize your shears between cuts to prevent spreading infection. Prune any small twigs or overlapping branches, to encourage air circulation throughout the tree’s canopy. Never prune in the spring, as boring insects may invade the wounded areas on the dogwood.

Pests and diseases

Dogwood anthracnose is the biggest threat to flowering dogwood trees. If this fungal infection is ignored, your trees will likely die within a few years. To remedy an anthracnose infection, remove the diseased parts of the tree and promote proper airflow. Aphids and scales are common pests found on dogwood trees, to eliminate them, try spraying the tree with a strong stream of water. If that does not solve the problem, neem oil or an insecticide can be applied. It should be noted that scales are notoriously difficult to eradicate, so you may need the help of a professional arborist. Proper care and maintenance of your pink flowering dogwoods are the first line of defense against most pests and diseases.

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