The dogwood (Cornus) owes its name to the extremely hard wood, which is particularly popular for walking sticks. There are around 55 different species, which are mainly found in the climatically temperate latitudes of the northern hemisphere. The shrub or small tree, also known as hornbush, is very robust, frugal and also absolutely winter hardy.
When is the best time to plant dogwoods?
The ideal planting time for dogwoods is in the autumn months from September to October and in the spring before the bush sprouts. Avoid planting during the hot summer months as dogwood requires a lot of water during this time.
Containerware can be planted all year round
The dogwood is usually available as a well-rooted container product that can basically be planted all year round. In fact, the shrub should not necessarily be placed in the garden during the hot summer months, because at this time it requires a lot of water and needs to be watered frequently. Otherwise, the shrub risks drying out quickly because the roots that have not yet grown in are not able to generate sufficient water from the soil. So if - for whatever reason - you have to plant a dogwood in the middle of summer, make sure there is sufficient water supply.
The best time to plant is before budding in spring
The best times for planting, however, are the autumn months of September to October and the early spring months before the horn bush sprouts. At this time, the tree needs significantly less water and is therefore less at risk of drying out. You can also plant the dogwood in the middle of winter as long as the weather is mild and the ground is not frozen.
Tip
Although the dogwood does not necessarily need to be pruned, it can tolerate severe pruning very well. If possible, this should take place after flowering, which can be seen on most dogwood species in the months of May to June.