Question
Hi Courtney,
I would like to know if the "Varigated Red Twig Dogwood" bush is acid loving. I have a number of these bushes and some are going well while others are stunted. The stunted ones are unfortunately under maple trees. Yes, I know that is probably the major problem. I have been fertilizing these bushes to try to stimulate  some healthy growth. i have been using "Miracle Grow" without any success. Am I using the wrong fertilizer, do they need an acid base one? I have done just about everything to make them grow except sleep with them.  HELP!  Alex

Answer
Hi Alex.

I'm not going to endorse sleeping with your shrubbery! ;-) Thanks for the giggle.

Dogwoods do have a slight preference for acidic soil. You can certainly try adjusting the pH for your stunted plants. However, I suspect that your maple tree diagnosis is the correct one.  Plants just won't grow without enough sun.

Before you try to change the pH of your soil, please test the existing pH so you know whether, how much, or how to make adjustments. I can't advise you on fertilizing though--I depend on my compost for nutrients.

I wish I'd been more helpful. Those are beautiful plants. Good luck!