Dogwood Tree Care Fertilizer

Adding a generous amount of mulch will help retain the water and cut down on watering tasks.

Dogwood tree care fertilizer. Dogwood trees need slightly acidic soil to thrive. Fertilize them in spring with a slow release shrub tree food preferably one that contains sulfur and or iron. Once established water the tree at least up to six inches. I always apply a 1 to 2 inch layer of cured shredded or chipped wood mulch or pine straw around the tree in spring.

For this reason it is often safest to hold off on fertilizing until your tree is in its second season. You can test the ph of your soil easily with a kit purchased at the nursery or online. The abundance of nitrogen denoted by the first number reflects this element s importance to the tree. The soil quality shouldn t be too sandy nor should it be heavy clay.

How to grow dogwood trees. In their natural habitat dogwoods are understory trees which are generally surrounded or protected by other larger trees. Dogwood trees grow well with a 12 4 8 fertilizer ratio. Dogwood shrubs aren t heavy feeders but will benefit from fertilization.

Fertilize the tree with a water based fertilizer during spring and summer months. Dogwood trees need well drained humus soil that is ideally slightly acidic. After the first year. If you notice any white cotton like masses.

Before you apply any fertilizer for dogwoods it is a good idea to test your soil and see what nutrients it lacks and if the ph is suited to your plant. Alternatively you can feed with a natural organic plant food or simply mulch with aged organic compost. A dogwood tree planted in clay soil will eventually rot and die as it will hold water for too long. Nitrogen provides the basic structure.

Therefore when caring for dogwood trees this should be considered carefully before placement in the landscape. Water the tree regularly during the initial months and hot spells. Proper dogwood care will bring these lovely trees to their height of beauty. It is best to let a newly planted dogwood grow on its own for the first year.

When to fertilize a dogwood tree i fertilize my dogwood trees during their spring bloom cycle just prior to when their new leaves will begin to emerge. If the soil is not acidic you can use an acid lover s fertilizer suitable for such plants as rhododendron and holly. If you have an established dogwood that you feel would benefit from fertilization have your soil tested to determine the best course of action. After new leaves have begun to emerge.