Dogwood Tree Care: Soil Testing Before Amendments

Don't Guess—Test Your Soil First

Planting a dogwood in full sun? The single most important step is a soil test. No amendments—not even bone meal—should be added without knowing your soil's current nutrient levels. Excess phosphorus can induce deficiencies in other nutrients.

Support Transplant Recovery

While awaiting test results, apply harpin protein (sold as "Messenger") to accelerate recovery from transplant shock. Espoma's mycorrhizal inoculants for trees boost nutrient uptake and produce dramatic growth and flowering results—far superior to bone meal, especially if phosphorus is already adequate.

Know Your Soil, Know Your Tree

Provide your zip code to locate the nearest Cooperative Extension office for professional soil testing. A targeted amendment plan based on actual data will give your dogwood the best start for long-term health and beauty.