Here in MA, I have a 20 year old Cornus Kousa Dogwood that has bloomed profusely for most of its lifetime with its exception being this Spring with only 5.% of the tree in bloom. Each year, the bloom period is from June 1-Sept 1, with fruit/seed forming after this point Why? What action should I take?
Hello,
Thank you for sending us your gardening question.
Since your tree has been established for years, you may consider amending the soil to add organic material such as manure or compost and adding a fertilizer high in phosphorus.
Here is an article you might find helpful:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/dogwood-tree-not-flowering.htm
Please let us know if you have any other gardening questions and happy gardening!
Thanks
Gardening Know How
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When should I prune the suckers at the bottom of my Kousa dogwood tree?
You can prune these at any time, but if you are worried about a fungal infection, then you should prune these during dormancy.
We have three Kousa Dogwood saplings to plant, which I would like to plant in a line. How far apart should they be planted? Ralph Smith Jamestown, NY
A mature Kousa Dogwood reaches 25 to 30 feet with an equal spread. You will want to space your trees for their mature size.
why does my kousa not bloom?
I've read that it can take up to 7 years for dogwood to bloom. On the other hand, there are many growing practices that affect blooming. Dogwoods need watering during dry spells all the way through fall. Flower buds are formed the previous year so if you see signs of heat or drought stress, the buds are the first to suffer and the tree may not set any buds if summer has been difficult. Blooming is best in a site with at least 4 hours of direct sunlight. Remember that tree roots go past the drip line: don't put any lawn chemicals or fertilizers over the root zone. (Too much nitrogen from lawn fertilizer will spur green growth in the tree at the expense of flowers.) https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/dogwood-tree-not-flowering.htm
My tree was purchased last year. It appeared to come through the Canadian winter. Buds formed on the tips of the branches. Then came a frost about two weeks ago. The tiny buds have turned brown. I broke off a very small twig and it is still green. Has it given up on me or is there a chance it will recover? If it does make it what fertilizer should I use? I have acidic soil here in the Maritimes. Thank you. Maggie
Buds are formed on dogwoods the previous fall. When frost hits after warm weather has enticed the buds to start opening, the bud fails. A general tree fertilizer at the recommended rate is a good idea for the first 3 years to keep the tree vigorous and healthy. In addition, watering during dry weather is still necessary this year. With weather becoming more erratic, one wonders if dogwoods and magnolias will be regular performers in the northern edge of their range. Lets hope so as they are lovely trees.
I planted a kousa dogwood tree about 4 years ago in my backyard. It was healthy and growing well until just recently. This spring tree looked great and leaves and blooms were great looking. Recently, after it bloomed, a lot of the leaves are curling up in a tight curl. Not sure what is going on as this has never happened before. I also have this same type of tree (planted at the same time) in my front yard that is doing just fine.
The outward appearance of curled leaves and yellow-brown edges is of heat or water stress. If you think the plant has adequate moisture for the weather conditions - excessive heat and wind increase water needs - then problems with roots may be the cause. This is a much more serious issue. Dogwood can get root rot or can developed cankers that impair flow of water to the leaves. Although Kousa dogwoods experience fewer pest problems than the native species, nothing is problem free. Here is a rundown of potential dogwood problems. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/gardens-gardening/your-garden/help-for-the-home-gardener/advice-tips-resources/visual-guides/flowering-dogwood-problems.aspx
It is about 5 feet tall. Last year was it's first year to bloom--with about 5 blooms. Has been in our yard about five years. Helen
Cool spring temperatures or any winter damage can effect spring leaf out and blooms.
Since last year was your first bloom; it is still a new tree.
A simple soil test can help you determine if a boost of fertilizer may help you tree.
Your County Extension Office can help you with this.
Here are some links to help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/extension-search
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/fertilizing-dogwood-trees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/dogwood/growing-kousa-dogwood-trees.htm