The wild dogwoods (Cornus florida) could more aptly be called "spring snowflakes," as they color the hillsides winter white. It's almost impossible to imagine northeast Texas without dogwoods, and spring is an ideal time to add one--or two or three--to your landscape.
When purchasing dogwoods and deciding where to plant them, remember the following hints. They will help ensure many years of enjoyment.
Dogwoods need very well-drained soil. Avoid sites that are poorly drained. Buy your trees from a reliable nursery; those in the wild may carry disease. Plant where the tree will receive several hours of sunlight, preferably morning sun. Too much shade and overcrowding invites the growth of fungal leaf problems.
Water weekly during drought periods. Water deeply, as light watering encourages shallow roots, which makes a tree more vulnerable to stress. Maintain mulch over a wide area to conserve moisture.
Geneva Thomas, Smith County Master Gardener
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