Question
Hi Jim:

I planted a dogwood in my front yard about 3 years ago. I about it at about 5 feet tall, and it's only grown about 1.5 feet. Although it does flower, I noticed that it's not growing very much. It gets full sun about 80% of the day. I tried using the Scotts spikes around the tree and it didn't work...any advice? thanks for your help. By the way, can dogwoods do well in part shade areas?

Answer
Dogwoods are adaptable to several types of soils; however, they naturally grow in moist, fertile soils high in organic matter. They are never found in poorly drained locations in the woods. Their primary demands are good soil drainage and protection from drought. Planting in poorly drained areas will usually result in the tree dying.
Best results will be obtained when dogwoods are planted in association with larger trees that provide moderate shade. In the wild the dogwood is commonly found as an understory tree growing under hardwoods and pines. Growth problems are more likely in hot, dry exposures. On the other hand, planting in dense shade will likely result in poor flowering.

Any general purpose fertilizer, such as 16-4-8 or 12-4-8, can be used. Many recently planted trees are killed by heavy fertilization. Do not over fertilize young trees in an effort to accelerate growth. On small trees 12 to 24 inches tall, apply one level tablespoonful in March and July. A newly-planted dogwood six feet tall re- quires about one-fourth cup (four tablespoons) of a 12-4-8 or 16-4-8 fertilizer in March and again in July. Evenly broadcast the fertilizer on the soil surface covering a radius two feet from the trunk.
For established trees, one-half pound (one cup) of a 12-4-8 or 16-4-8 per inch of trunk diameter (four feet above ground level) in March and again in July is adequate. For an eight to ten percent nitrogen source, increase the rate by one-third. Apply one-third of the fertilizer beyond the dripline of the foliage since the roots of established trees extend into this area. Do not concentrate the fertilizer in an area near the trunk.

Dogwoods are shallow rooted and should be heavily mulched. They also need consistent soil moisture, especially for the first three years. During those years, place a soaker hose around the tree and leave the hose on all night, several times a week for sandy soils. For mature trees, thoroughly water every week during the drought season. Before watering, check the soil moisture several inches deep with your fingers, and water more or less frequently as needed.