Question
Could a dogwood tree be started if you plant the red seedlings that come off the tree?

Answer
Hi Brenda,
Thanx for your question.  Yes, dogwood trees can be started by seed but if you have a hybrid tree the resulting seedlings will probably not resemble the parent tree because of the hybridization.  Additionally, depending upon the variety, dogwood seeds will need one or more periods of cold/warm.  That means the seed will need to be exposed to damp, cold (no more than 40F) for a period of 90 days or more and then a subsequent warming period to break dormancy.  Many deciduous trees require at least one cold period followed by a warm period to break dormancy or they won't germinate.  Dormancy is nature's way of preventing the seed from germinating in cold weather and then dying.  You can plant the seed in a pot and leave it outdoors for the winter and seedlings will sprout this spring or next spring.  Keep the pot watered but well drained.  You can also duplicate this by planting the seed in a pot and sealing it in a plastic baggie and storing it in the fridge for 90 and then bringing it out to temps between 65-70 F.  If germination doesn't occur in a couple of months, return the pot to the fridge for another 60-90 days and then back into the warmth.  I hope this helps.
Tom