Dogwood Leaf Scorch from Drought: Watering, Fertilizer Caution, and Recovery Outlook

Brown leaf margins on your dogwood indicate water deficit. Dogwoods are shallow-rooted and drought-sensitive, especially in full sun. Symptoms often appear 1–2 seasons after the stress.

Immediate Care

• Water deeply but infrequently—keep soil moist, not soggy. Avoid daily heavy watering; it can drown roots in clay soil.
• Hold off on fertilizer—it adds salt stress when roots are already compromised.

Recovery Expectations

Burned leaves won’t recover. New growth may appear this fall or next spring. Continue consistent moisture through dry spells. A soil test next spring (free through county Extension) can guide long-term nutrition.