New Flowering Dogwood Wilting: Transplant Shock Recovery

Diagnosing Sudden Wilt

Two spring-planted flowering dogwoods suddenly wilting—classic transplant shock. Dogwoods prefer semi-shade; full sun causes stress. Root systems can't yet support canopy.

Establishment Watering Protocol

1. Water every 3rd day with 1 inch (pan method).
2. Continue through first growing season if no rain.
3. Mulch 3" organic (pine straw ideal)—not on trunk.

Planting Quality Check

• Hole 2× root ball width.
• Backfill with good topsoil.
• Burlap/wire removed from roots.
• Root ball at grade.
• Watered at planting.

If planted correctly and watered consistently, dogwoods recover and thrive. Wilting is a survival response, not death.