Question
I have tried unsuccessfully at getting Dogwoods to take on my property. I have one that was here when we moved in 10 years ago. What is the ideal location and procedures for planting. I am especially interested in the Pink Varieties if that makes a difference. I Live in Zone 8. I do have what I would consider some rather poorly draining areas in my lawn. I live in the river bottoms. Thanks.

Answer
Flowering dogwoods can be grown in sun or shade but shaded trees will be less dense, grow more quickly and taller, and have poor flowering and fall color. They prefer part shade (preferably in the afternoon) in the southern end of their range. Many nurseries grow the trees in full sun, but they are irrigated regularly, if not daily. Flowering dogwood prefers a deep, rich, well-drained, sandy or loam soil with some organic matter and has a moderately long life (up to 40 years on a good site). It is not recommended in areas with heavy clay or wet soils unless it is grown on a raised bed to keep roots away from wet soil.

Trees should be planted in a hole as deep as the rootball, no deeper. In compacted or poorly-drained soil, the hole should be three times the width of the rootball, and the planting hole should be only two-thirds the depth of the root ball. Mound soil to cover the sides of the root ball and gently taper the side of the mound down to the existing soil grade. Never place any soil over the rootball. Create a 3-inch deep circle of mulch about 2 feet in diameter for each inch of trunk diameter. Increase the size of the mulched area as the tree grows. This technique will establish a tree quickly by eliminating competition from turf and other plants. Pull mulch 1 to 2 inches away from the trunk to prevent moisture from promoting bark decay. The tree should be watered thoroughly after transplanting to settle soil around the roots.