flowering dogwood
Cornus florida 'Royal Red'
Overview
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida 'Royal Red') is an amazing plant species. It is characterized by its stunning reddish-purple foliage, which is spectacular in any garden. In spring, it produces small, bright, yellow-green flowers that develop into delicate white bracts. In autumn, its leaves turn a deep burgundy, adding even more interest to the garden. This show-stopping dogwood is easy to care for and provides a great pop of color with minimal effort. Plus, it is practically deer-proof and can even tolerate some drought conditions. With its beauty and durability, there is no doubt that Royal Red is an amazing plant species.
Care Guide
Watering
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Royal Red') needs to be watered about once a week in the spring and summer and about every 2 weeks in the fall and winter. The type of soil and amount of sunlight available will also impact the frequency of watering. In well-drained, sandy soils, the plants will need to be watered more often than when planted in a clay-based soil. Your best option is to feel the soil to determine if it is dry. If the top inch of soil is dry to the touch, it’s time to water. When watering, thoroughly saturate the soil and water for at least 30 minutes or longer. Do not let the plant dry out between waterings as this will induce stress and reduce its ability to flower.
Light
Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida 'Royal Red') prefers locations with full sun in the morning and partial shade in the afternoon. This plant species should get at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight every day. Generally, the best time for your Flowering Dogwood to receive sunlight is from 8am to 3pm. Avoid direct afternoon sunlight as scalding and sunburn can occur, causing permanent damage to the leaves. Additionally, be sure to provide your Flowering Dogwood some protection from strong winds, which can cause damage to the plant.
Soil
Acidic, Well-drained
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6–6.
Pruning
Flowering dogwood (Cornus florida 'Royal Red') is a beautiful ornamental tree that benefits from regular pruning. Generally, the best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Pruning in late winter or early spring will promote healthy branch structure and reduce the risk of storm damage. Use clean, sharp pruning tools to make clean cuts and remove any deadwood, crossed branches, or rubs. Select 1 or 2 of the larger branches to use as the main structure of the tree, and remove any branches that cross or rub against them. Remove any suckers or cut back any branches that extend beyond the desired canopy shape. Since flowering dogwood buds are located on the older wood, avoid pruning after July as it may interfere with flowering. Overall, it is important to keep the natural form of the tree, as pruning too severely can cause harm.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Layering Propagation, Air Layering Propagation, Seed Propagation
Diseases & Pests
Common pests: Anthracnose, Canker, sap rot, Diptera - true flies, Fungal leaf spot, Mildew, Nematodes, Root rot, Scale insects, Stem borer insects, Thrips, Deer resistant .
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