Flowering dogwood tree

Question

Tree just lost some big branches that were dead. Should I cut them at the base and what should I cover the cuts with so insects don’t get in?

Answer 1

There isn't a lot you can use to cover cuts that won't (in the end) hurt a tree, so you shouldn't prune it right now, because boring insects will be most active now through June.

These articles may help you:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/trimming-dogwood-trees.htm

and

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/dogwood-borer.htm